The Definitive Album by Louis Armstrong (Remastered) Louis Armstrong

• 1 Back O' Town Blues 04:03
• 2 Sweethearts on Parade 04:31
• 3 Sugar Foot Stomp 02:33
• 4 Canal Street Blues 04:30
• 5 Bill Bailey 02:55
• 6 Someday You'll Be Sorry 04:06
• 7 Struttin' with Some Barbecue 05:11
• 8 I Ain't Gonna Give Nobody None of My Jelly Roll 04:46
• 9 Cornet Chop Suey 02:14
• 10 My Bucket's Got a Hole in It 02:14
• Total Runtime 37:03

Info for The Definitive Album by Louis Armstrong (Remastered)

Stunningly remastered (even the earliest cuts from 1938 are hiss free, full-bodied and remarkably clear), “Louis Armstrong: The Definitive Collection” includes a 16-page booklet with rare photos and detailed session liner notes. “Satchmo” was a prolific and multi-talented musician whom some consider the most iinfluential jazzman ever, and this 23-song set covers highlights of his legendary career.

This is an excellent album for someone who wants an easy-to-get-into education to jazz. It contains primarily Louis’ later hits, like “Hello, Dolly!” which knocked the Beatles off the top spot on the Billboard Top 100 list in 1964 and made Louis the oldest man ever to have a number one hit single! (Incidentally, his name is frequently mispronounced, but he himself established what he preferred to be called when he referred to his own name in “Hello, Dolly!” as “Loo-iss” and not “Loo-ee”!)

Interestingly, Mr. Armstrong lost part of his ability to play the trumpet as early as the 1930s, when his lip broke while touring Europe. But he adapted to the realities of losing his superhuman playing abilities by developing a more expressive style, and by concentrating on vocalization. Despite having a gravelly voice, it was pleasant on the ears, and became his trademark. This album documents well that second phase of his performing material.

One highlight is an absolutely irresistible “Gone Fishin’” which Louis does with Bing Crosby. (Just listen to Der Bingle scat in the background as Louis carries the lead at some points).

Mr. Armstrong performs “Blueberry Hill” to perfection and its arresting melody will linger in your mind. “Ain’t Misbehavin’” is a whole lot of fun to hear, and the band that plays with him really plays beautifully. The album also contains some superb earlier work, including a taste of Louis duetting with Ella Fitzgerald, accompanied by the great Oscar Peterson, and some terrific numbers like “I Want A Little Girl” from 1946. The album concludes with “When It’s Sleepy Time Down South,” a nice way to end the album.

Considering that Louis Armstrong was one of the seminal players who practically invented jazz in the 1920s, and a key figure in the history of the 20th century popular culture whom everybody ought to know about, this album is a fun place to start.

Digitally remastered

Louis Armstrong
was born on August 4, 1901, in New Orleans, Louisiana, the birthplace of jazz. He is considered the most important improviser in jazz, and he taught the world to swing. Armstrong, fondly known as "Satchmo" (which is short for "Satchelmouth" referring to the size of his mouth) or "Pops," had a sense of humor, natural and unassuming manner, and positive disposition that made everyone around him feel good. With his infectious, wide grin and instantly recognizable gravelly voice, he won the hearts of people everywhere. He had an exciting and innovative style of playing that musicians imitate to this day. Throughout his career, Armstrong spread the language of jazz around the world, serving as an international ambassador of swing. His profound impact on the music of the 20th century continues into the 21st century.

This album contains no booklet.