Stardust (2002)

by Bill Charlap

Though his debut on record occurred only eight years prior to Stardust, pianist Bill Charlap has become well known for his lush, poignant reading of the standards. On his second date for Blue Note, Charlap and his rhythm section lovingly re-create 11 songs by songster Hoagy Carmichael, and are joined by some truly big talents. Tony Bennett joins in on a spare arrangement of "I Get Along Without You Very Well," Shirley Horn graces an exceptional "Stardust" (perhaps Carmichael's best-known ballad), and guitarist Jim Hall's ... Read More

Though his debut on record occurred only eight years prior to Stardust, pianist Bill Charlap has become well known for his lush, poignant reading of the standards. On his second date for Blue Note, Charlap and his rhythm section lovingly re-create 11 songs by songster Hoagy Carmichael, and are joined by some truly big talents. Tony Bennett joins in on a spare arrangement of "I Get Along Without You Very Well," Shirley Horn graces an exceptional "Stardust" (perhaps Carmichael's best-known ballad), and guitarist Jim Hall's robust, muted tone is featured on "Two Sleepy People." However, tenor saxophonist Frank Wess damn near steals the show with his warm, languid playing on "Rockin' Chair" and "Blue Orchids." ~ John Duffy, Rovi Read Less