In Reply to: Best sound and recording of Rhapsody in Blue? posted by John PA on September 14, 2022 at 13:24:49:
There are several.
The Symphonic Jazz Orchestra, on their album "Looking Forward, Looking Back" play from a newly-rediscovered set of orchestral parts, leaving lots of space for improvisational breaks. Recommended for general cultural literacy, but the sound, while not objectionable, is not quite Stereo Store Demo Fodder.
I don't have any particularly strong recommendation for the 1942 "full symphony orchestra" orchestration, which, of course, was after Gershwin's death.
BIS always can be counted on for excellent sound, and their Freddy Kempf/ Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra/ Andrew Litton hi-res version of the original Ferde Grofé jazz-band version is a pleasure to listen to, with a gratifyingly punchy piano left hand.
Your choices are paying a premium for the SACD on Amazon, or streaming via QOBUZ.
best of luck,
john
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Follow Ups
- Well, which version? - John Marks 14:41:01 09/14/22 (11)
- I have that Kempf recording too - Chris from Lafayette 00:56:05 09/16/22 (0)
- Thank you. . . that is the issue. . - John PA 11:49:43 09/15/22 (2)
- The original score was for a semi-jazz band... that created practical difficulties - John Marks 12:18:43 09/15/22 (1)
- Thank you! - John PA 14:28:45 09/15/22 (0)
- RE: Well, which version? - B. Scarpia 08:46:51 09/15/22 (0)
- RE: Well, which version? - Inmate51 14:53:02 09/14/22 (0)
- RE: Well, which version? - pictureguy 14:44:30 09/14/22 (4)
- RE: Well, which version? - beach cruiser 13:56:06 09/20/22 (1)
- What version is the dud. . - John PA 17:52:06 09/22/22 (0)
- There's also the Michael Tilson Thomas version where he conducts - John Marks 16:07:26 09/14/22 (1)
- Interesting. NT - John PA 11:51:47 09/15/22 (0)