Personnel:
Al Hirt (tp), Marty Paich, Henri René (arr, dir)
Reference: BMCD 885
Bar code: 8427328008853
· Collector's Edition
· Issued in Digipack
· Includes Bonus Tracks
· Original Cover Art and Liner Notes
· Stereo Recordings
· Newly Remastered in 24-Bit
A new side of Al Hirt’s amazing artistry was revealed in this album. The big, broad, brass tone —that readily identifiable mark of the mightiest horn— turns subtle and subdued. Hirt threads his finely honed trumpet against a silken tapestry of strings masterfully arranged and conducted by Marty Paich. For the last six tracks, Henri René surrounds Hirt —the master of sharp, bright, powerful bursts of color— with a string orchestra including rhythm, four trombones, and one baritone sax.
Hirt’s horn is occasionally muted, but more often it is heard in restrained full voice as it clearly defines the varying shades of mood. The album’s program of well-known selections takes on a new dimension of meaning in Hirt’s hands. His horn can be haunting or tender, wistful or wailing, or quietly chuckling in retrospect.
