SoundStage! Music Online Editor's Pick Archives
July/August 2002

Stan Getz - Stan Getz with Cal Tjader
JVC XRCD JVCXR-0218-2, 2002

Musical Performance
****
Recording Quality

*****

Overall Enjoyment
*****

With its XRCD program, JVC has produced the most distinguished catalog of remastered recordings extant -- now well over 100 strong -- as well as some of the best-sounding CDs you can buy. And that they've achieved such stellar sound with master tapes that are often approaching 50 years old is a clear sign that there's something to the care with which XRCDs are produced. Coming on the heels of many vintage classical re-releases, this seemingly little-known set from Stan Getz and Cal Tjader on vibes includes the likes of Scott LaFaro and Vince Guaraldi. It's joyous, expert music making unlike most of what we hear today, which is perhaps the reason JVC chose this title for remastering. The early stereo sound is sweet, spacious and detailed, and it ranks with the very best from the other audiophile-grade XRCDs, of which their are many. It's at the top of my recommendation list for those looking to buy an XRCD or two and thus find out what the series is about: great music, attention to detail, and superior sound....Marc Mickelson


Dave's True Story
BePop 1011, 2002 (remaster)

Musical Performance
****
Recording Quality

****

Overall Enjoyment
****

Dave's True Story's 1998 release Sex Without Bodies created a stir in audiophile circles, but two of the songs from this 1994 eponymous debut CD were featured in the movie Kissing Jessica Stein and catapulted the NYC band into mainstream consciousness. In its initial release, this disc sold over 10,000 copies, a good many of these coming at live shows, and it's easy to understand why: catchy numbers well played in a jazz/pop/lounge vein. Singer Kelly Flint interprets these songs with nuance and sexiness, which are all the better served by the spacious and clear sound. "Sequined Mermaid Dress" is worth the price of the disc alone, but "Last Go 'Round" proves that reincarnation is a suitable subject for something other than heavy metal. If you enjoyed Sex Without Bodies, you won't miss a beat with this CD, remastered and re-released with four bonus tracks....Marc Mickelson


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