Did I Remember – 2021
Catherine Russell
A revival of an obscure but rewarding swing number
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Since emerging from the ranks of background vocalists, Catherine Russell has become one of the jazz world’s top swing singers.
From 2021, she performs “Did I Remember,” an obscure but worthy number from the 1930s that was recorded by Billie Holiday with an all-star group led by Teddy Wilson.
Ms. Russell has her own all-star group on this date, one consisting of guitarist-musical director Matt Munisteri, pianist Mark Shane, bassist Tal Ronen, drummer Mark McLean, trumpeter Jon-Erik Kellso, trombonist John Allred, and clarinetist Evan Arntzen.
After her first vocal, there are spots for Arntzen (who sounds quite relaxed while playing very much in the tradition), Shane, and Kellso whose half chorus recalls Bunny Berigan a bit.
The closing vocal is quite powerful and perfectly wraps up the joyful performance.
-Scott Yanow
Ella Fitzgerald