Almost Blue - Elvis Costello (as performed by Chet Baker)
Rumour has it that Elvis Costello was pretty fond of Chet Baker and loved his rendition of The Thrill is Gone (another "slit your wrists" kinda song). Apparently, Almost Blue is inspired by The Thrill is Gone.
I'm not sure of the circumstances that led to Chet singing Costello's composition, but I am sure that it is one soulful, mournful rendition.
Every part is necessary in this recording -- Chet's trumpet solo, the piano - everything falls perfectly into place. I love that the intro is long...it's impossible to skip over it and get the full effect and idea of it's beauty.
And CHET - oh Chet...even though it was later on in his life, and he was obviously missing some teeth...he does such a bang-up job of telling you things without TELLING you things just from the mastered tone of his instrument...it's like another appendage. That's the magic of a real jazz musician...
Enjoy.
I was listening to this when my mom called, she approves of your choice for the day.
ReplyDelete