“The Magic Touch” is an album by Tadd Dameron, recorded on April 16, 1962, in New York City and originally released on Riverside Records (RLP 419). The Jazz Workshop Vinyl reissue as a 180-gram audiophile LP (JW-104) revives this record with remastering that emphasizes the orchestral sound’s richness. The lineup features a large ensemble, including Clark Terry (trumpet), Charlie Rouse (tenor saxophone), Joe Wilder (trumpet), Barbara Winfield (vocals), and a rhythm section with Dameron on piano. The album includes Dameron’s originals like On a Misty Night and arranged standards. The music is bebop with orchestral elements, with Dameron’s arrangements crafting lush, melodic textures. The Jazz Workshop reissue, limited to 500 copies, is prized for its detailed sound, capturing the ensemble’s magic. “The Magic Touch” is a masterpiece, showcasing Dameron’s compositional genius.
Tadd Dameron (February 21, 1917 – March 8, 1965) was an American jazz composer, arranger, and pianist, one of bebop’s architects. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, he began playing piano in his youth, inspired by Duke Ellington. In the 1940s, Dameron became a key figure in bebop, working with Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, and Billy Eckstine. His compositions, like If You Could See Me Now and Hot House, became standards. Dameron was known for his rich harmonies and melodic arrangements, bringing sophistication to bebop. His albums, including The Magic Touch, highlight his genius as an arranger. Later, he taught, inspiring young musicians.
TRACKLIST
Side One:
1. On a Misty Night 2:57
2. Fontainebleau 4:09
3. Just Plain Talkin’ 4:52
4. If You COuld See Me Now 3:16
5. Our Delight 2:48
Side Two:
1. Dial ‘B’ for Beauty 2:58
2. Look, Stop and Listen 4:54
3. Bevan’s Birthday 3:28
4. You’re a Joy 3:40
5. Swift as the Wind 3:12
Personnel:
Full personnel is as follows:
On a Misty Night, Fontainebleau and Swift as the Wind: Charlie Shavers, Clark Terry, Ernie Royal (trumpets), Jimmy Cleveland, Britt Woodman (trombones), Julius Watkins (French horn), Leo Wright, Jerry Dodgion (alto sax & flute), Jerome Richardson (tenor sax & flute), Johnny Griffin (tenor sax), Tate Houston (baritone sax), Bill Evans (piano), Ron Carter (bass), Philly Joe Jones (drums).
Recorded in New York City, on Febraury 27, 1962
Our Delight, Dial ‘B’ for Beauty and Bevan’s Birthday: Joe Wilder (trumpet, replaces Shavers), George Duvivier (bass, replaces Carter); other the same.
Recorded in New York City, on March 9, 1962
Other four selections: Terry, Cleveland, Dodgion, Griffin,Richardson,Houston, Evans, Carter, and Jones. Vocals by Barbara Winfield.
Recorded in New York City, on April 16, 1962
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