Charlie Parker Memorial, Vol. 1 cover

Charlie Parker Memorial, Vol. 1

Charlie Parker · 1956

40 min · 20 tracks · bebop

An intimate collection of Parker's improvisations revealing the genius of bebop in raw, unedited takes.

Why this album works

This album is significant as it captures previously unreleased takes of Parker's work, showcasing his creative process and improvisational brilliance. It contributes to the understanding of Parker's legacy and has been influential in preserving the history of bebop for future generations.
Best for
intimate improvisations revealing short bursts of creativity wave-like pacing with interludes
Context
Released in 1956, 'Charlie Parker Memorial, Vol. 1' came a year after Parker's untimely death and serves as a tribute to his groundbreaking contributions to jazz. At this point in his career, Parker was already recognized as a pivotal figure in bebop, influencing countless musicians through his innovative style and complex melodies.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Another Hair Do - Short Take 1 0:15
  • 2 Another Hair Do - Short Take 2 0:37
  • 3 Another Hair Do - Original Take 3 2:37
  • 4 Bluebird - New Take 1 2:52
  • 5 Bird Gets the Worm - New Take 1 Standout 3:00
  • 6 Barbados - New Take 1 Standout 2:34
  • 7 Constellation - Short Take 2 2:04
  • 8 Constellation - New Take 1 2:30
  • 9 Parker’s Mood - New Take 1 Standout 3:21
  • 10 Ah-Leu-Cha - Short Take 1 0:30
  • 11 Ah-Leu-Cha - Original Take 2 2:50
  • 12 Perhaps - Short Take 4 0:35
  • 13 Perhaps - New Take 5 2:35
  • 14 Perhaps - Original Take 6 2:35
  • 15 Marmaduke - Short Take 1 1:10
  • 16 Marmaduke - New Take 2 2:47
  • 17 Steeplechase - Original Take 1 3:00
  • 18 Merry Go Round - New Take 1 2:15
  • 19 Buzzy - Short Take 4 0:20
  • 20 Buzzy - Original Take 5 2:27

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata