“Earl Hines Plays Cole Porter”: A Jazz Odyssey of Timeless Elegance

Introduction:

In the illustrious tapestry of jazz history, certain albums emerge as timeless gems, capturing the essence of an era while showcasing the boundless creativity of the artists. “Earl Hines Plays Cole Porter” stands as a testament to the enduring brilliance of pianist Earl “Fatha” Hines. Released in 1975, this solo piano album is a masterclass in interpretation, improvisation, and the transformative power of music. This exploration delves into the nuances of the album, its reception, and the indelible mark it left on the legacy of both Hines and the great American songbook.

The Setting:

Recorded on April 16, 1974, at RCA Studios in NYC, “Earl Hines Plays Cole Porter” is a musical journey that unfolds with the grace and precision of a seasoned storyteller. At 71, Hines, the immortal pianist, embarked on a session that would not only pay homage to the genius of Cole Porter but also reaffirm his own unparalleled artistry.

The Musical Alchemy:

The album opens with “You Do Something to Me,” a track that sets the tone for what unfolds – Hines’ enchanting dialogue with Porter’s compositions. Each piece is a canvas upon which Hines paints with the colors of his nuanced touch and inventive phrasing. From the rhythmic dance of “Night and Day” to the reflective lyricism of “What Is This Thing Called Love?” every note bears the fingerprint of a pianist who, despite his age, was still reaching new heights.

Reception and Reviews:

Critics and aficionados alike hailed “Earl Hines Plays Cole Porter” as a remarkable achievement. Scott Yanow, in his review for AllMusic, noted that Hines interpreted the compositions “as if he had been familiar with them for decades.” Yanow praises Hines’ chance-taking improvisations, highlighting moments that are “hair-raising” and “quite exciting.” The review captures the essence of an album where a maestro, at the pinnacle of his art, transcends time itself.

Track-by-Track Brilliance:

1. “You Do Something to Me” (7:39): Hines opens with exuberance, infusing Porter’s classic with an infectious energy.
2. “Night and Day” (9:50): The rhythmic variations and cascading notes evoke the ever-shifting colors of day and night.
3. “Rosalie” (4:08): Hines navigates the melody with a delicate touch, breathing new life into this Porter gem.
4. “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” (8:12): A profound exploration of intimacy, Hines’ rendition is both tender and virtuosic.
5. “I Get a Kick Out of You” (4:11): The playful spirit of Porter’s composition is captured in Hines’ dynamic performance.
6. “What Is This Thing Called Love?” (5:00): Reflective and contemplative, this rendition explores the emotional depth of Porter’s composition.
7. “You’d Be So Easy to Love” (7:38): The album concludes with a ballad, a testament to Hines’ ability to evoke profound emotion.

Legacy and Immortality:

“Earl Hines Plays Cole Porter” isn’t just an album; it’s a sonic testament to the eternal nature of great music. Earl Hines, who seemed to be “improving” even at 71, crafted a work that transcends temporal boundaries. The album’s legacy lives on, not only in the annals of jazz history but in the hearts of those who continue to discover its timeless elegance.

In the delicate dance between artist and composer, “Earl Hines Plays Cole Porter” emerges as a masterpiece. Earl Hines, the virtuoso, and Cole Porter, the genius composer, converge in a sublime collaboration that transcends the limitations of time. As we immerse ourselves in the resplendent notes of this album, we are reminded that, in the hands of a master like Hines, music becomes a timeless expression of the human soul.

References:

1. Cook, R. & Morton, B. (2008). The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings. Penguin Books.
2. “Earl Hines Plays Cole Porter” album cover art. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Earl_Hines_Plays_Cole_Porter.jpg