April in Paris

From HitStory, the pop encyclopedia of School of Rock · Work

April in Paris was the first record by Count Basie and his orchestra for the Verve label. It was recorded at Fine Sound in New York, in July 1955 and January 1956. The record was released in 1957. The arrangements came from, among others, Frank Foster, Ernie Wilkins, Neal Hefti and Joe Newman. Freddie Green, the orchestra's guitarist, wrote Corner Pocket.

AllMusic gave the record five stars and called it almost instantly a classic. The Rolling Stone Jazz Record Guide spoke of a commercial high point for this orchestra. The Penguin Guide to Jazz heard busy arrangements, tough solos and extremely precise timing.

Listening

Track list

1. 1April in Paris3:51Apple Music ↗
2. 2Corner Pocket5:18Apple Music ↗
3. 3Didn't You4:48Apple Music ↗
4. 4Sweety Cakes4:02Apple Music ↗
5. 5Magic3:10Apple Music ↗
6. 6Shiny Stockings5:18Apple Music ↗
7. 7What Am I Here For?3:24Apple Music ↗
8. 8Midgets3:15Apple Music ↗
9. 9Mambo Inn3:24Apple Music ↗
10. 10Dinner with Friends3:08Apple Music ↗

30-second previews via Apple Music. Listen to the whole album on Apple Music ↗

See also

• Count Basie and His Orchestra