Everyone knows the expression, "April showers bring May flowers." The beauty of flowers inspires songs of color, happiness, love, and passion, with a hint of the summer yet to come. In honor of the season, here's a small bouquet of jazz with a floral flair.
Jazz In Bloom: May Flowers
Jacky Terrasson
"La Vie en Rose"
From 'A Paris...'
While the title doesn't refer to roses ("rose" is French for "pink"), this song would provide an ideal soundtrack for a stroll through a Parisian park full of flowers. This jaunty take on "La Vie en Rose" is a far cry from Edith Piaf's signature version. Terrasson is featured here on piano and Fender Rhodes, and joined by percussionist Minino Garay.
Fats Waller
"Honeysuckle Rose"
From 'Greatest Hits [RCA]'
"Honeysuckle Rose" is one of legendary stride pianist Fats Waller's best-known compositions. It's bright, bouncy, and free of thorns.
Astrud Gilberto
"Misty Roses"
From '20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of Astrud Gilberto'
Astrud Gilberto detoured slightly from her bossa nova roots in 1967 to record a contemporary American song. "Misty Roses" was also recorded by Bobby Darin and the Four Freshmen, among others.
Kurt Elling
"Orange Blossoms in Summertime"
From 'Flirting With Twilight'
Modern vocal master Kurt Elling wrote the lyrics for this ballad, originally an instrumental written and recorded by bassist Curtis Lundy. It sounds like a lazy summer day.
Billy Strayhorn
"Passion Flower"
From 'Lush Life [Red Baron]'
This beautiful big-band ballad was recorded live at New York's Basin Street East in 1964. Billy Strayhorn's Orchestra is accompanied by the sound of clinking dishes, while Johnny Hodges' expressive sax evokes the image of an unfolding flower.
Copyright 2008 90.5 WESA