Search - Sound of Jazz on DVD

Magical - but inferior edition

Magne Fonn Hafskor | Norway | 06/27/2003

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Updating my earlier review: I just found out this show is available - in a much better transfer (picture/sound) in a DVD-edition called "JAZZ MASTERS - VINTAGE COLLECTION 1958-1961". I urge everybody interested in this excellent/exceptional/magical show to check out this edition!!!
It also includes the THELONIOUS MONK TRIO performing "Blue Monk" - which the present edition mysteriously omits...
In addition: An extra disc with additional material, a.o. an excellent performance of "So What" by Miles Davis...
So my advice is: Avoid this edition - check out the one mentioned above - and enjoy the greatest jazz ever captured by a camera...
The standout track is the one with Billie Holiday in her own composition FINE AND MELLOW - one of her last performances. This was also the last time she performed together with her lifelong friend/soulmate/lover Lester Young. When he solos, it's almost as you can see his notes touching her..."

An ugly transfer!

Gori Leonardo | Firenze Italy | 02/12/2003

(1 out of 5 stars)

"I wonder why this disc is so horrible: the video is unwatchable, the sound is poor... And every time I saw some excerpts of this historical event, at some TV shows, the quality was very good. Do not purchase this item."

What Happened in the Transfer?

Bruce Clarke | Melbourne, Victoria Australia | 02/11/2003

(1 out of 5 stars)

"Having lived with the VHS version for many years and having used it as an adjunct to my regular jazz teaching routine. I excitedly looked forward to (what I expected to be its great) update into the digital format. Upon receiving the DVD, I sat down to hear it - in what I hoped would be its ultimate form), hit the start button & reeled backed horror. The picture quality was totally degraded, the sound - dreadful - and all I can say is that the manufacturers have done an unspeakable dis-service to one of the great historic and visual masterpieces of jazz history. Avoid the DVD -stick with the VHS until the current producers get their act together."

Where's Monk?

Bruce Clarke | 01/17/2003

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Although it is an abiding joy to have the legendary "Sound of Jazz" broadcast of December 8, 1957 on DVD, we are disheartened to report that, for now anyway, you are better off getting it on VHS. For some inexplicable reason, Thelonious Monk's distinctive rendition of his own "Blue Monk" is nowhere to be found."