Toots Thielemans - The Live Takes, Vol. 1

Not that there has ever been much competition, but the legendary Toots Thielemans is arguably the world's greatest jazz harmonica player at the turn of the century. This recording, a compilation of live recordings of various jazz standards (from the very familiar "I Love You Porgy"/"Summertime" to the more obscure "Three Views of a Secret") was available overseas for years before receiving its U.S. release in 2000. Longtime fans will certainly love it all, but there are too many dragging stretches where the mood is too subdued to generate much excitement. Read More