Artist: Fats Waller Album: Fats Waller Sings! 24 Classic Hits

Year: 2001
Duration: 0:0-1

A Vintage Review of Fats Waller Sings! 24 Classic Hits

Jazz enthusiasts have long known the music industry staple, Fats Waller, and his signature stride piano sound. In Fats Waller Sings! 24 Classic Hits, the artist adds his unique vocals to some of his most iconic music. As a music fan, I found myself drawn to the album for its promise of vintage novelty. But, is Fats Waller Sings! worth a listen in modern times? Let’s take a closer look.

Fats Waller was a prodigious showman-cum-musician who was widely popular in the 1920s through the 1940s. He lived to the age of 39 but left behind a lasting legacy through his recordings. Waller dabbled in various genres, including big band, swing, and ragtime, but he was known for his stride piano sound that involved an often frenzied rhythm and improvisational elements. He brought a unique touch of humor to his songs and performances, creating a lighthearted atmosphere that many still appreciate today.

Fats Waller Sings! is a collection of 24 classic hits, some of Waller’s most recognizable tunes. It includes tracks like Ain't Misbehavin, Honeysuckle Rose, and The Joint is Jumpin.” The album is a fun listen, especially when one wants to transport oneself to another era. The songs are upbeat and jazzy, and Waller’s vocals bring that special charisma to the mix. One gets a sense of the good times Waller inspired from listening to the album.

What stands out as most innovative about the album is how it showcases Waller's talent as a performer. Listeners can appreciate his prowess as a pianist, singer, and bandleader in one package. The balance between the instrumentals and vocals is an achievement in itself. Critically, the sound quality isn’t up to today's standards, and the mix can be muddy at times. But it doesn't take away from the enjoyable experience.

It’s worth noting that Waller's style isn't everyone's cup of tea. While some might find his approach refreshing, others might find it too repetitive or almost nursery rhyme-like. However, a deeper look at Waller's songs reveals hidden depths, especially when exploring the subtleties in his lyrics. For instance, Your Feet's Too Big takes on a humorous, lighthearted tone, but it plays on the themes of social class, particularly the working-class stereotypes of African American men.

Ultimately, Fats Waller Sings! 24 Classic Hits is a nostalgia-inducing album for jazz and swing enthusiasts. While it isn't without flaws, it showcases the dynamic energy of Fats Waller as an artist who revolutionized his craft. His unique mix of humor, showmanship, and piano talent is deserving of studies to this day. In conclusion, give Fats Waller Sings! a listen and let yourself be transported to a bygone era of innocent fun.