Jazz Bands, Artists and Genres Appreciation

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tempo

Printed From: JazzMusicArchives.com
Category: Jazz Music Lounges
Forum Name: Jazz Bands, Artists and Genres Appreciation
Forum Description: Discuss specific jazz artists/bands and their members or a specific sub-genre
URL: http://www.JazzMusicArchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=28239
Printed Date: 19 Apr 2024 at 1:55pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 10.16 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: tempo

Posted By: Werner
Subject: tempo
Date Posted: 03 May 2021 at 7:06pm

Two related questions I'm curious about:

1. Did many of the "greats" really think tunes sound best played uptempo, or did they do it just because of pressure to show that they had the chops?

2. Did Bill Evans ever play uptempo? Could he?

My bias: "Giant Steps" is a beautiful tune that sounds better latin at 120 bpm.......

Replies:

Posted By: js
Date Posted: 03 May 2021 at 8:23pm

Question 1 probably doesn't have a definitive answer, but in almost any musical style, high speed technique is something that can be exhilarating for the musicians, and exciting for the audience too.

Jazz isn't the only one, its also a big deal in classical music and rock too, especially metal.

Jazz of course has that history of cutting contests, so it is part of the long running tradition.

As for question 2, you're right, I've rarely heard Evans play very up tempo. In the early part of his career he was a bit more rough and tumble, so maybe some early recordings have some up tempo stuff.

Posted By: birdtranescoe
Date Posted: 11 May 2021 at 10:45pm

This came from a dance aesthetic too - rhythm music - this left an indelible mark on the music. And, it's a master's form, so speed is an inevitable element.