[TR24][OF] Louis Armstrong - What a Wonderful World - 1968/2012 (Jazz)

Mastering was completed by Kevin Reeves at Sterling Sound NYC, using the original 1/4" analog masters from the ABC Records vault. The masters were played on a modified Studer A820 with Wolke Butterfly heads and converted to digital at 192khz/24bit resolution using the DCS 904 converter and Sterling’s proprietary mastering systems. As always, the most direct signal path was maintained throughout the mastering process.

The album, highlighted with his expressive and emotive vocal styling, includes arguably one of the greatest songs ever written, “What A Wonderful World,” a recording that would be inducted into the GRAMMY® Hall of Fame and continues to transcend countless generations of music lovers.

Only the most hardhearted of cynics could resist the melancholy sweetness of this album's beloved title track. The song was a hit in 1968 and only became the opening cut on this wonderful album some 20 years later. This well-known recording ... Full Descriptionof the tender ballad--complete with a 16-piece string section--is lovely enough. But it is Pops' gravelly voice and inimitable signature delivery that really bring out its beautiful, aching quality.

Also included are such hits as "Cabaret," "Dream A Little Dream Of Me," and the Mills Brothers' "I Guess I'll Get The Papers And Go Home." New songs such as "The Home Fire and "Give Me Your Kisses" show that Armstrong, even in his later years, was still bursting with personality and the essence of jazz. One of his best-selling albums ever, WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD is, well, wonderful! This disc acts as a fond tribute to one of the most important figures in American music.

Recorded in New York, New York and Las Vegas, Nevada in 1968. Includes original release liner notes by John F. Szwed & additional liner notes by Bob Thiele.

Personnel includes: Louis Armstrong (vocals); Tyree Glenn (trombone); Joe Muranyi (clarinet); Marty Napoleon (piano); Buddy Catlett (bass); Danny Barcelona (drums).

amazon.com customer review:

What a wonderful album! All eleven tracks are strong, but of course his "What A Wonderful World" must rate as the most beautiful rendition thereof. "Dream A Little Dream Of Me" is my personal favourite of the album, but again, the entire selection is top class. This is/was one of his best releases, go and get it. I recommend this without reservation.

If you are new to Louis Armstrong, then this is the best place to start. His voice is rich and deep, and the tempo ranging from slow Sunday afternoon, to an old-fashioned Saturday night dance.