Rex Stewart - Swing Time: Rex Stewart - Willie Smith (LP)

Dive into the vibrant world of swing, jazz, and ragtime with "Swing Time: Rex Stewart - Willie Smith," a captivating album released on July 17, 2020, under the Bella Musica Edition label. This musical journey spans a full hour, featuring 21 tracks that showcase the extraordinary talents of Rex Stewart and Willie Smith.

The album opens with the soulful "Without a Song" and takes you on a rhythmic adventure through classics like "Linger Awhile," "My Sunday Gal," and "Mobile Bay." Each track is a testament to the mastery of Stewart and Smith, as they lead an ensemble of masterful individualists, creating intense swing that's hard to resist.

Highlights include the energetic "Swing, Brother, Swing," the sultry "Sittin' at the Table (Opposite You)," and the playful "Harlem Joys." The album also features standout performances like "The Swampland is Calling Me," which has garnered a dedicated following among fans, and "Streamline Gal," a track that showcases the dynamic interplay between Stewart and Smith.

The album is a celebration of the swing era, with tracks that range from the romantic "Love in My Heart (Swing, Baby Swing)" to the lively "Sugar Hill Shim-Sham" and the laid-back "Lazy Man's Shuffle." Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Swing Time: Rex Stewart - Willie Smith" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the enduring appeal of swing music.