Album Review: "Plays Pee Wee" by Pee Wee Russell (1961)
If you’re a fan of classic jazz with that irresistible swing feel, Pee Wee Russell’s Plays Pee Wee is an album worth diving into. Released in 1961 under Stere-O-Craft and Bell Records, this record brings together some heavy hitters from the US jazz scene. With Pee Wee himself leading on clarinet, backed by legends like bassist Walter Page, drummer George Wettling, guitarist Steve Jordan, and pianist Nat Pierce, it’s no surprise this album feels alive—like it’s got its own heartbeat.
The mix of tracks here is solid, but two songs really stuck with me: "Muskeegie Blues" and "Over The Rainbow." Let’s talk about them for a sec.
"Muskeegie Blues" kicks things off with a raw, earthy vibe. Pee Wee’s clarinet playing has this raspy, almost conversational tone—it’s not polished or perfect, but that’s what makes it so damn human. You can tell he’s not just playing notes; he’s telling a story. The rhythm section locks in tight, letting Pee Wee wander without ever losing the groove. It’s one of those tracks where you don’t just hear the music—you feel it.
Then there’s "Over The Rainbow," which flips the script entirely. This isn’t your typical syrupy cover. Instead, Pee Wee takes the melody and gives it a smoky, late-night makeover. His clarinet dances around the theme, teasing it out note by note, while Nat Pierce’s piano adds these subtle flourishes that keep things interesting. By the time the track ends, you’ve forgotten you were even listening to a familiar tune—it feels completely fresh.
What stands out most about Plays Pee Wee is how loose yet intentional everything sounds. These guys weren’t chasing perfection; they were chasing soul. And honestly, isn’t that what jazz is all about? There’s something comforting about hearing musicians who trust each other enough to let the music breathe.
Here’s the kicker, though—listening to this album made me realize how rare it is nowadays to find recordings that sound so unapologetically real. No auto-tune, no overproduction, just six people in a room making magic happen. If you haven’t given this one a spin yet, do yourself a favor and check it out. Just don’t blame me if you end up humming "Muskeegie Blues" for days.
Final thought? Jazz purists might call this essential listening, but I think anyone who loves good music will dig it. After all, great tunes don’t need a label—they just need ears willing to listen.
