Mayfield, Irvin
Basin Street, 2005, CD
Instrument: Trumpet
Issue: 11.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Swing
Performance: 5
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: This is not only a set of swinging Dixie jazz but a well integrated story about Leroy and Mary Ann and their tragic biracial friendship. The orator is Wendell Pierce. There are also gospel ballads with excellent vocals from the Dillard University Choir. The New Orleans Jazz Orchestra is well strong and Mayfield shines against their powerful backdrop on “Ballad Of The Hot Long Night”. “Beat” at the end of Movement #5 has intense Latin flavors which complement the romantic moments of the poem. Hats off to Irvin for having the courage to attempt such a session and the talent to successfully pull it off!
