Charlie Parker: Star Eyes
Musicians:
Charlie Parker (alto sax), Hank Jones (piano), Ray Brown (bass), Buddy Rich (drums).
Recorded: New York, April 1950
Rating: 100/100 (learn more)
Charlie Parker may have owed his fame to his dazzling, finger-cramping saxophone solos on his own bebop tunes, but one of his most enjoyable sides is his 1950 recording of “Star Eyes.” It is, in my opinion, the definitive recording of this composition, which may have something to do with the all-star quartet here. Parker blows a repeated five-note introduction and then quickly settles into the romance, carving a gentle path through the ballad’s melody and chorus. Pianist Hank Jones comps respectfully while bassist Ray Brown walks the line; drummer Buddy Rich is far more restrained than what we’re using to hearing from him. This “Star Eyes” is pure perfection.
Reviewer: Steve Greenlee
Tags: alto sax · bebop · star eyes · verve
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