Charlie Byrd I've Got the World on a String

Personnel: Charlie Byrd (vocals, guitar); Chuck Redd (drums).

Audio Remasterer: Peter Brussee.

Recording information: Studio Murec, Milano (07/04/1994-07/05/1994).

Photographer: Jan Persson.

This Timeless CD is a bit unusual in that guitarist Charlie Byrd sings the first six numbers; it is only the second time in his career he has taken vocals on record. His singing is simple and generally effective if not too memorable. The final 11 numbers are instrumentals (odd programming) and also surprising in that the emphasis is on standards, often from the swing era; there is only one Brazilian song (Antonio Carlos Jobim's "So Danca Samba"). Byrd (in a trio with bassist Joe Byrd and drummer Chuck Redd) is in generally fine form overall although it is doubtful that he will get too many requests to feature his singing in the future. ~ Scott Yanow