Ahmad Jamal - The Bright, The Blue and The Beautiful
A beautiful and often overlooked recording from one of jazz's most elegant pianists, The Bright, The Blue and The Beautiful finds Ahmad Jamal exploring a more orchestral and vocal-oriented sound while retaining the tasteful restraint and melodic sophistication that made him one of the most influential pianists in jazz history. Released on Cadet Records in 1968, the album pairs Jamal's distinctive piano trio with the Howard A. Roberts Chorale, creating lush vocal arrangements of timeless standards and contemporary favorites. Produced by longtime collaborator Richard Evans, the recording offers a warm, cinematic sound that bridges jazz, pop, and easy listening without sacrificing Jamal's unmistakable touch. The album features memorable interpretations of classics including "Wild Is the Wind," "At Long Last Love," "Lover Man," "Never Let Me Go," "Yesterday," and "By Myself." Jamal's understated piano work, imaginative harmonies, and impeccable sense of space make every performance engaging and deeply expressive. Still sealed in its original shrink wrap, this vintage Cadet Records pressing is an excellent addition for collectors of Ahmad Jamal, vocal jazz, and late-1960s jazz recordings.