Dizzy Gillespie's many collaborations with producer
Norman Granz resulted in an impressive body of work that forms the basis for
Verve Jazz Masters 10, a grab bag of bop, big band, and mainstream modern jazz recordings made between the years 1950 and 1963. The impressively packed roster of participants includes
Roy Eldridge,
Charlie Parker, and
Sonny Stitt. In a sensible and very effective maneuver, the collection opens with the famous "Manteca" performed by
Gillespie's big band at the Newport Jazz Festival. This single seven-minute performance will tell you everything you need to know about
Dizzy Gillespie. Every aspect of his musical persona appeared to the people during that exciting open-air Afro-Cuban jam. It is hoped that exposure to this Roman candle version of "Manteca" and the rest of the excellent music on this CD will encourage listeners to pursue the rest of
Gillespie's amazing recorded legacy. ~ arwulf arwulf