Ted Rosenthal, The King And I (Venus). Following Shelly Manne’s success with his 1956 trio recording of My Fair Lady, jazz versions of Broadway musicals were hot for several years. That was when there were musicals with songs that lent themselves to jazz interpretation. Those days are not gone for musicians with ears for quality material. Pianist Rosenthal brings taste, technique and imagination to Rodgers and Hammerstein’s score. Bass master George Mraz and the eloquent drummer Lewis Nash are his sidemen. Among the highlights: Rosenthal’s festive treatment of “I Whistle A Happy Tune,” his tenderness in “We Kiss In A Shadow” and the trio’s parade-beat romp through “March Of The Siamese Children.”
Doug Ramsey on Jazz and other matters...
