Monday 8 August 2016

Sugar Lips – AL HIRT****

Sugar Lips/The Girl From Ipanema/Tenderly/Up Above My Head/Milano/Back Home Again In Indiana/Pink Confetti/Poupee Brisee/September Song/New Orleans My Home Town/Night Life/Looking For The Blues

Trumpet virtuoso Al Hirt was at the height of his popularity in 1964. His second hit album of the year, Sugar Lips, stayed on the US album chart for nearly a year. The title track single was less successful than his previous two releases. (US:8)

"It was produced by Chet Atkins, the master of the 'countrypolitan' sound of that era. Hirt plays as only Hirt can, with zest, wonderful rhythm and golden tone. The most touching moment, for me, is Hirt's vocal on Willie Nelson's Night Life, recorded quite a few years before Willie became a star. This is music to be enjoyed and savoured."

"It's true; if you like his Dixieland stuff, you probably won't like this album because its completely different in style."

"His large-bore tone, his technical playing skills, the romance and the sense of humour he applies to his style is totally timeless, brilliant and intelligent."

"Al's power and technical ability just bowls over even the most advanced listeners/players who can appreciate his talent and expertise. Al's real talent came from showmanship, his likeable style, light to catchy pop and Dixieland themes."

"I remember him from childhood as his music was the kind that my parents were into. Now that I have matured I can really appreciate this kind of music. What makes this disc so nice is the fabulous Anita Kerr Singers in the background. I wish that Al had recorded more sessions with them."

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