Timeless treasures from Avid…
Led by pianist Gene Harris along with Andrew SImplins/b and William Dowdy/dr, The Three Sounds were a long-term working band that mixed blues and bop with a dash of gospel. These four releases find them in their earliest and swingingest years. Their 1958 debut has Harris bopping hard on “Would’n You” while Harris’ own “Both Sides” and “It’s Nice” well showcase his lyricism. Next year alto saxist Lou Donaldson joins in for some soulful sounds on “Smooth Groove” and the toe tapping “Jump Up” . 1960 has them bringing in tenor saxist Gene Harris for a ebullient “I Got It Bad” and hip take of “Straight, No Chaser”. The followup have the three on their own for some late night moods on “Love For Sale” and a mellow “Li’l Darlin”. Ivories that sing.
At one time, Perry Como was the epitome of laid back swing and sophisticated pop. Here we have four albums during his most popular years. In 1956, he’s sentimental when backed by orchestras of either Russ Case or Henri Rene’ on pieces like “Body and Soul” and “Love Me Or Leave Me”. The same year Como gives a definitive read of “Prisoner of Love” and impressive “Wile We’re Young”. With the same orchestras in 1959 he keeps it light on “Roses of Picardy” and “Door of Dreams”. 1962 finds him with some of his hits like the catchy “Ko Ko Ko” and romantic “I Love Your Truly”. Sweater cool.