Two Men With The Blues

W. NELSON & W. MARSALIS: Two Men with the Blues
Blue Note, 2008

Yes, it is an odd match. But then again, Willie Nelson will work with anybody. Nelson and Marsalis played two nights together at Lincoln Center in early 2007*, exploring old-time blues, traditional jazz, classic ballads and even a jump tune or two. Both men love this music, and they strike up a surprising rapport. It starts well, and just gets better.

Fo’s Picks: 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

1. 5:20 – laid-back vocal, perky band with just a dab of grease
2. 5:44 – casual blues: great growling trumpet & low-key vocal
3. 3:26 – uptempo jump blues: drawling vocal, brief guitar solo
4. 5:09 – heartfelt ballad: Willie’s quirky vocal phrasing stands out
5. 4:56 – Dixieland blues: croaky vocal smeared across perfect band
6. 4:41 – tasteful, almost reverent: quiet vocal, sweet piano, good solos
7. 5:44 – loose blues: gruff touch in vocal, strong strutting band
8. 4:57 – old New Orleans tune: wry duet vocals over a loose stomp
9. 7:28 – a great sound on this one: Willie’s a perfect fit; fun duet vox
10. 6:08 – uptempo stomper with revival meeting flair, lots of good solos

[ Fo ] 21-Jun-08


[*] Totally unnecessary story: I was actually in the building one of these nights, but attending a different show (Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra). During the intermission, I ran into an acquaintance in the lobby, and asked if he was enjoying the ALJO show. He said he was there to see Willie and Wynton. I thought he was joking! Guess he wasn't...