Toots Thielemans

Not that there has ever been much competition, but the legendary Toots Thielemans is arguably the world's greatest jazz harmonica player at the turn of the century. This recording, a compilation of live recordings of various jazz standards (from the very familiar "I Love You Porgy"/"Summertime" to the more obscure "Three Views of a Secret") was available overseas for years before receiving its U.S. release in 2000. Longtime fans will certainly love it all, but there are too many dragging stretches where the mood is too subdued to generate much excitement. After a very gentle lullaby take on "Stardust," Thielemans and his ensemble take things up a notch with some energetic interaction and soloing in the final minutes of the seven-and-a-half minute "I Do It for Your Love" and throughout the more swinging "Three Views of a Secret." Even on the quiet pieces ("All the Way" is just way too languid), Thielemans does his usually wonderful job of lingering on certain emotions and improvising sharply. If you're looking for pleasant mood music with rare bursts of adventure, this will fill the bill. ~ Jonathan Widran, All Music Guide