Ruby Braff: I Hear Music (2001)

Gary Griffey

Recent articles (22 total)

Published: November 1, 2002

Ruby Braff has compiled an album of sheer pleasure in quintet work. His well shaped cornet sound, and the interplay of the instruments through each cut is a shining example of mastery of pacing and a sense of timing. Within each of the cuts is a conversation between the instruments where each one says their version of the melody in turn. Cut 2, a medley of “Chicago” and “My Kind of Town” also has hints of Loesser’s “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Other fascinating takes on classic tunes include “Baby, Won’t You Please Come Home,” “Wouldn’t it be Loverly” and “I Hear Music.”

Another treat on the album is a tune written by Braff himself, entitled “We’re All Through.” Guest Soloist Daryl Sherman makes the song with a vocal that conveys the message that is laced through this beautiful piece. Braff says in a quote from the liner notes that the lyrics were written the way you hear them because the song had the feel of the final piece for a club band. The result is a lyrically simple, yet elegant piece of work... an album that is well worth the time, particularly for those who favor smooth cornet work.

Track Listing: I Hear Music; Chicago Medley: Chicago/My Kind of Town (Chicago is); Baby, Won't You Please Come Home; Wouldn't it be Loverly; Yesterdays; (I Would Do) Anything for You; We're All Through

Personnel: Ruby Braff, Cornet; Bill Charlap, Piano; Bucky Pizzarelli, Guitar; John Beal, Bass; Tony DeNicola, Drums; Daryl Sherman, Vocal on We're All Through

Record Label: Arbors Records
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream