Ahmad Jamal A¢a‚¬a€œ Jamalca (1974) [Jazz][mp3 320][schon55]

Ahmad Jamal ΓΓé¼ΓÇ£ Jamalca
Released: 1974
Label: 20th Century Records
Format: Vinyl, LP
Quality: CBR 320 kbps

Released in 1974, Jamalca is a far cry from Ahmad Jamal's classic trio recordings from the '50s but in line with his other early-'70s releases. In fact, it has a strong early-'70s vibe in general, in terms of both the arrangements -- which feature blaxploitation-tinged strings, anonymous female background singers, and the occasional flute -- and the repertoire, which includes such then-current numbers as Thom Bell's "Ghetto Child," Marvin Gaye's "Trouble Man," and the Johnny Mandel-penned "M*A*S*H Theme" (also known as "Suicide Is Painless," and a tune that was covered by several other jazz musicians during this era, including Bill Evans, Paul Desmond, and Jimmy Smith ). Jamal himself splits time between Fender Rhodes and acoustic piano and showcases his usual taste and elegance throughout, despite occasionally being overwhelmed by easy listening strings and obtrusive background vocals. This is essentially a crossover album, and while it is dated, it is still enjoyable in spots. Highlights include the breezy "Misdemeanor," the chipper (if somewhat goofy) title track, and the M*A*S*H theme, which stays on just the right side of the cocktail-lounge background music line. At this point, the potential audience for this album will consist more of crate-digging rare groove enthusiasts than straight-ahead jazz fans, but for those in the aforementioned demographics, Jamalca is at least worth a listen. ~ William York, All Music Guide

Personnel:
Ahmad Jamal ΓΓé¼ΓÇ£ piano, keyboards
Richard Evans ΓΓé¼ΓÇ£ bass
Jamil Nasser ΓΓé¼ΓÇ£ bass
Frank Gant - drums
Brian Grice - drums
Marilyn Haywood ΓΓé¼ΓÇ£ vocals
Vivian Haywood ΓΓé¼ΓÇ£ vocals
Jimmy Spink ΓΓé¼ΓÇ£ vocals

Ahmad Jamal ΓΓé¼ΓÇ£ Jamalca Tracks:
01 Ghetto Child
02 Misdemeanor
03 Along the Nile
04 Trouble Man
05 Jamaica
06 DonΓΓé¼Γäót Misunderstand
07 Theme Bahamas
08 Children Calling
09 Theme from M*A*S*H (Suicide Is Painless)