Marian McPartland - Giants Of Jazz: Marian McPartland (LP)

Dive into the world of cool jazz with Marian McPartland's "Giants Of Jazz: Marian McPartland," a captivating collection of live and studio performances released on May 4, 2004, under the Savoy label. This 43-minute album is a testament to McPartland's mastery of the genre, featuring a blend of timeless standards and her own compositions.

The album opens with a lively rendition of "The Lady Is A Tramp," followed by the upbeat "Strike Up The Band." McPartland's delicate touch and impeccable phrasing shine through in "Love Is Here To Stay" and "All The Things You Are." The live tracks, including "Manhattan" and "Aunt Hagar's Blues," showcase her ability to connect with an audience, while "Four Brothers" and "Once In A While" highlight her compositional skills.

McPartland's interpretations of classics like "There Will Never Be Another You" and "It's Only A Paper Moon" are both respectful and innovative, while her rendition of "Love You Madly" adds a touch of vulnerability to the collection. Throughout the album, McPartland's piano playing is complemented by her warm, engaging vocals, making "Giants Of Jazz: Marian McPartland" a delightful journey through the world of cool jazz.