Take a five minute break and listen to some music. Actually, you’ll need more like 15.
Last night ABC’s “World News Tonight” reported on a new documentary on the plight of music in Pakistan. An important topic to be sure, but what does that have to do with us here?
The news feature goes on to show a version of Brubeck’s hit “Take Five” played by a Pakistani orchestra. Apparently the song was recorded some years ago and for a time was the top jazz download on iTunes. But the documentary about the supression of music in Pakistan, “Song Of Lahore,” was just released last month.
Above is Brubeck’s group in 1964, the epitome of bespectacled jazz-geek-cool, doing their hit number. Below, the news segment:
And finally, “Take Five,” which takes its name from its 5/4 time signature (tap your feet along — it’s fun), as you’ve never heard it before. — CC
I much prefer the raga version, because it has much less of the noodling that makes jazz so annoying to me (personal preference, not an invitation to debate the merits of jazz). On the other hand, it is, at times, almost Lawrence Welkian in its squareness—an interesting juxtaposition.
Here’s another ethnic take on “Take Five,” for those who are interested.
But Henry, saying America’s great and wonderful native art form is just “noodling that makes jazz so annoying to me” nonetheless constitutes sacrilege to this lifelong devotee.
I like opera, Christian, which some decry as caterwauling, so there you have it.
I don’t dislike all jazz, BG, but I don’t care for dissonance and noodling, two hallmarks of certain types of jazz. In the right mood, I enjoy things like Eddie Higgins Trio’s “Dear Old Stockholm.”
While I appreciate the offer, BG, I have to ask: how many opera fans do you know who also like jazz? Liking one usually precludes liking the other.
Having played jazz in my youth, I think it’s safe to say that get it better than most jazz non-fans do. I simply do not care for it. For what it’s worth, I don’t like Stravinsky either—but I love Berlin & the Gershwins.
In addition to my jazz collection I’ve a decent classical collection (including Stravinsky), but I draw the line at opera. You’re right; the few opera lovers I’ve met were somewhat condescending when I coweringly confessed my modern jazz devotion. Berlin and the Gershwins: now you’re talking.
Did Dave Brubeck favour OCBDs or BB garb? I’m sure someone’s longing to enlighten us. All I know is that he was blessed with the sublime Paul Desmond.
I much prefer the raga version, because it has much less of the noodling that makes jazz so annoying to me (personal preference, not an invitation to debate the merits of jazz). On the other hand, it is, at times, almost Lawrence Welkian in its squareness—an interesting juxtaposition.
Here’s another ethnic take on “Take Five,” for those who are interested.
@Henry
Echoing Rousseau, do you like cats?
Nice fit on Brubeck’s jacket…
But Henry, saying America’s great and wonderful native art form is just “noodling that makes jazz so annoying to me” nonetheless constitutes sacrilege to this lifelong devotee.
On a Sunday afternoon in 1965, I was fortunate to see them perform in concert and it was an amazing introduction to Jazz that I have never forgotten.
I like opera, Christian, which some decry as caterwauling, so there you have it.
I don’t dislike all jazz, BG, but I don’t care for dissonance and noodling, two hallmarks of certain types of jazz. In the right mood, I enjoy things like Eddie Higgins Trio’s “Dear Old Stockholm.”
Henry baby, I could suggest a few modern pianists who’d soon stretch your jejune jazz sensibilities, but I’ve a feeling you wouldn’t thank me.
Bass players don’t need glasses.
While I appreciate the offer, BG, I have to ask: how many opera fans do you know who also like jazz? Liking one usually precludes liking the other.
Having played jazz in my youth, I think it’s safe to say that get it better than most jazz non-fans do. I simply do not care for it. For what it’s worth, I don’t like Stravinsky either—but I love Berlin & the Gershwins.
Go figure.
In addition to my jazz collection I’ve a decent classical collection (including Stravinsky), but I draw the line at opera. You’re right; the few opera lovers I’ve met were somewhat condescending when I coweringly confessed my modern jazz devotion. Berlin and the Gershwins: now you’re talking.
Speaking of Berlin, it’s his birthday today. Just tweeted this tune, one of the bands and hangouts from my swingin’ days in San Francisco:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBFA5GvAA78