Music of the Day, 18 July 2024
let's take five
A few unexpected happenings in Jackie-land have turned this into a stressful week for me. A couple of things will not be resolved in the short term, and I’ve been overly focused on them … not really worried, because that isn’t my style, but perseverating even though I know that isn’t helpful either.
Last night as I was falling asleep, I told myself I needed to take a mental break from fussing over things that are out of my control. A specific phrase came to mind. And when I woke up this morning, a bouncy melody was in my mind instead of anxious thoughts.
I can’t get enough of “Take Five.” I may have heard the Dave Brubeck Quartet’s version as a child, but my first clear memories are of the late great Al Jarreau’s cover, with lyrics that create a sweet vignette. On days like today, I want the classic that saxophonist Paul Desmond wrote to highlight drummer Joe Morello’s skill at playing in unusual time signatures. It’s in 5|4, and while it does highlight Morello’s chops, everyone contributes to the swinging sound. In addition to Desmond on sax and Morello on drums, Dave Brubeck’s piano and Gene Wright on the upright bass provide the foundation for “Take Five.”
The tune went far beyond being a Morello showpiece, though—it became an unexpected hit in the early ‘60s and is the best-selling jazz song of all time.1 I’m sure I’ve heard other covers, but I don’t remember them … these two versions cover all my needs.
I do have Time Out in my music library, but it’s been a very long time since I’ve listened to all of it. Today is a good day to correct that. I haven’t had much practice in playing unusual time signatures,2 but I sure enjoy listening to music that uses them.
I remember a song we played in high-school concert band had a section in 5|4, and that’s it
One of my all time favorites. Thanks for this!
I am always surprised at how our musical tastes so closely intersect at times. Tom Lehrer! I had so many of his songs in my piano bar repertoire. So funny, and listen to that piano playing! And he's still alive. 96 years old.
I think I played "Take Five" too many times, over the years, to remember just what a breakthrough that was. I'm going to listen again this weekend.
And in the "Gone Too Soon" department, Al Jarreau. I only saw him once live. But he delivered the goods, oh did he deliver the goods.