Chet Baker – Sings And Plays (Black Vinyl)

Chet Baker’s “Chet Baker Sings and Plays with Bud Shank, Russ Freeman and Strings” is a cornerstone of West Coast jazz, showcasing Baker’s dual talents as a vocalist and trumpeter. Recorded in Los Angeles in 1953–54, the album features intimate performances enriched by the lush string arrangements of Marty Paich. Baker’s cool, understated trumpet style and fragile, haunting vocals are complemented by the artistry of saxophonist Bud Shank and pianist Russ Freeman, key figures in the West Coast jazz scene. Tracks like “I Fall in Love Too Easily,” “My Funny Valentine,” and “But Not for Me” highlight Baker’s ability to convey deep emotion with minimalist phrasing. The interplay between Baker, Shank, and Freeman is sophisticated yet accessible, while the strings add a cinematic, romantic quality. This album solidified Baker’s status as one of the most compelling figures in jazz, blending vulnerability and technical brilliance.

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Release Date: 11.07.2025