Arne Domnérus et al • Jazz at the Pawnshop
Proprius Records Prop 7778-79
Two 33-RPM 180 g LPs
Recorded live by Gert Palmcrantz at the Stampen Jazz Club in Stockholm, Sweden, in December 1976, Jazz at the Pawnshop has established itself as part of the audiophile repertoire. One listen to the twelve tracks, spread over four sides, is enough to explain why. Close your eyes and the immediateness and “you are there”-ness makes you feel like you’re sitting in the audience.
I must admit that I don’t find the music particularly accessible (although it is starting to grow on me); sure, the musicians are talented, but for the most part, the music ain’t my cup of tea (although I did enjoy the rather manic rendition of Dave Brubeck’s Take Five). Take this comment with a grain of salt, of course: if the music is up your alley, you won’t care what I think about it (and nor should you)!
Nicely packaged in a double gatefold sleeve, this record is recommended as an audiophile test record, doubly so if you enjoy the music!