Swingin’ Through Time: A Raw Take on “Anthology of Scat Singing Vol. 2”
Man, if you're into jazz with a swing heartbeat, this album’s got your name written all over it. Released in '95 by MASTER OF JAZZ (a French label that knows its stuff), Anthology of Scat Singing Vol. 2 is like stepping back into some smoky Parisian club where the air smells like spilled wine and good vibes. It’s not just an album—it’s a vibe machine.
Now, I gotta say, there are tracks here that’ll stick to your brain like gum under a barstool. Let me break down two for ya.
First up: “Basin Street Blues.” Oh man, this one hits different. The moment those horns kick in, it’s like someone lit a match inside my soul. You know how sometimes music can feel stiff or try-hard? Not this. This track swings so hard it feels like it might knock you off your chair—but in the best way possible. There’s something about the scat vocals—they’re loose but sharp, kinda like watching a cat chase its tail. Every time I hear it, I’m reminded why swing was made to make people move. And trust me, you will move.
Then there's “Sweet Sue, Just You.” This one sneaks up on you. At first, it’s all smooth sailing—like walking through a park at sunset—but then BAM! That vocal riff comes outta nowhere and punches you right in the feels. Like…how do they even come up with these sounds?! It’s playful yet kinda melancholy too, which makes it super relatable. Ain’t life like that sometimes? All sweet and sunny until you trip over your own thoughts?
The rest of the album keeps the energy alive with bangers like “Doin’ The New Lowdown” and “Shine,” but honestly, every track has its own little quirks that keep things fresh. Whether it’s the cheeky bounce of “Stomp Your Stuff” or the dreamy nostalgia of “Somebody Stole My Gal,” this record doesn’t let up.
Here’s the thing though—it’s wild to think this came out in ‘95. Back then, grunge and pop were ruling the charts, but here we have this unapologetically jazzy gem from France reminding everyone what real groove sounds like. Makes you wonder what else got lost in the shuffle, y’know?
So yeah, listening to Anthology of Scat Singing Vol. 2 isn’t just hearing music—it’s feeling it. Like when you accidentally spill coffee on your shirt but laugh anyway because hey, it’s part of the story. Weird analogy? Maybe. But so is this album—and thank goodness for that.
