The RCA Victor Group continues its Bluebird First Editions series with three new reissues. The latest releases include Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli’s Djangology, Louis Armstrong’s Louis Armstrong and His Friends, and Lonnie Liston Smith’s Astral Traveling (pictured). All three CDs feature previously unreleased tracks and/or alternate takes.
Djangology, which was recorded in 1949 in Rome, marks the reunion of Reinhardt and Grappelli after the second World War cut off their relationship. The album, which features an Italian rhythm section of pianist Gianni Safred, bassist Carlo Pecori and drummer Aurelio de Carolis, includes tunes such as “Honeysuckle Rose” and “I Got Rhythm.” Although no tracks are rare or unreleased, the original Djangology 12-track LP has been expanded to 23, featuring tunes from the session that have been meted out elsewhere.
