Take The “A” Train – 1965
Harry James
A swinging version with Buddy Rich on drums
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Harry James was one of the finest trumpeters to ever play jazz, a brilliant technician capable of playing heated jazz, warm and sometimes schmaltzy ballads, and anything in between.
While his most creative years were in the 1940s, James was an impressive trumpeter into the 1970s.
This version of “Take The ‘A’ Train” has James in fine form in 1965, welcoming Joe Riggs for a brief alto solo; the big band is driven by drummer Buddy Rich who always enjoyed playing with James.
-Scott Yanow