Album Information Section
Album Title: Standard Time, Vol. 2: Intimacy Calling
Artist: Wynton Marsalis
Original Release Date: March 26, 1991
Label: BMG Direct
Genres: Jazz, Traditional Jazz
Track Listing:
- 1. When It’s Sleepytime Down South (5:10)
- 2. You Don’t Know What Love Is (6:24)
- 3. Indelible and Nocturnal (4:11)
- 4. I’ll Remember April (8:34)
- 5. Embraceable You (7:16)
- 6. Crepuscule With Nellie (3:04)
- 7. What Is This Thing Called Love? (6:30)
- 8. The End of a Love Affair (3:13)
- 9. East of the Sun (West of the Moon) (5:16)
- 10. Lover (5:06)
- 11. Yesterdays (9:37)
- 12. Bourbon Street Parade (5:48)
Recording Information
“Standard Time, Vol. 2: Intimacy Calling” was recorded at the renowned Avatar Studios, located in New York City. The recording sessions took place in 1990, although the exact dates are not publicly documented. The album was produced by Wynton Marsalis himself, along with his engineering team, ensuring a sound that was both polished and true to the jazz tradition. Notably, the album utilizes analog recording techniques, which were pivotal in capturing the warmth and depth of the performances. Marsalis’s intention was to create an intimate atmosphere, reflecting the themes of love and nostalgia that permeate the album.
Band Context
At the time of the album’s release, Wynton Marsalis was already a prominent figure in the jazz world, having gained fame for his virtuosic trumpet playing and his dedication to traditional jazz forms. “Standard Time, Vol. 2” was part of a series dedicated to the standards of jazz, showcasing Marsalis’s deep appreciation for the genre’s history. The lineup for this recording included notable musicians such as pianist Eric Reed, bassist Reginald Veal, and drummer Herlin Riley, all of whom contributed to the rich, ensemble sound. Leading up to this album, Marsalis had won multiple Grammy Awards, further solidifying his reputation as a leading jazz artist during the late 1980s and early 1990s. This album followed the successful release of its predecessor, “Standard Time, Vol. 1,” and continued to explore the classic repertoire of jazz standards.
Track Commentary
The album opens with “When It’s Sleepytime Down South,” a tune that sets the mood for the entire collection, showcasing Marsalis’s lyrical trumpet style. This track is followed by “You Don’t Know What Love Is,” which features a poignant interpretation and allows for an emotional connection through its haunting melody. “Indelible and Nocturnal” is an original composition by Marsalis, blending intricate harmonies with a romantic undertone, while “I’ll Remember April” offers a classic jazz standard that highlights the band’s tight cohesion and improvisational prowess.
Each track on the album is carefully curated to evoke a sense of intimacy, with “Embraceable You” and “What Is This Thing Called Love?” standing out as highlights for their lush arrangements and heartfelt performances. The inclusion of “Yesterdays” showcases Marsalis’s ability to reinterpret well-known songs, adding a layer of personal expression that resonates with listeners. The closing track, “Bourbon Street Parade,” brings a lively and upbeat conclusion to the album, celebrating the rich traditions of New Orleans jazz.
Overall, “Standard Time, Vol. 2: Intimacy Calling” received critical acclaim for its sophisticated arrangements and Marsalis’s exceptional musicianship. The album is often regarded as a significant contribution to the jazz canon, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating the standards that have shaped the genre. Its legacy continues to influence contemporary jazz musicians and serves as a testament to Wynton Marsalis’s commitment to the art form.
