Vinyl Vault — Jay McShann, “Kansas City Hustle” and “After Hours”

The Vinyl Vault will feature tracks from two albums from pianist Jay McShann, “Kansas City Hustle” and “After Hours.” “Kansas City Hustle” was recorded in 1978 and released on the Sackville record label and “After Hours” was recorded in 1977 and released on the Storyville label.

Vinyl Vault is sponsored by Vinyl Me, Please

Jay McShann, January 12, 1916 – December 7, 2006, was a pianist, vocalist, composer, and bandleader. Originally from Oklahoma, he found his fame in Kansas City leading a big band starting in the 1930s that featured such jazz notables as Charlie Parker, Al Hibbler, Ben Webster, Jimmy Whitherspoon, Paul Quinichette, and more. Following World War II, he led mostly smaller ensembles. Through all the changes, swing and the blues were the prominent features of McShann’s music.

The two featured albums were primarily solo recordings with a couple of ensemble pieces thrown in. And generally, McShann eschewed vocals (with an exception or two) and focused primarily on his piano playing. As it was throughout his career, the blues permeated every tune, and his left hand kept the proceedings moving forward, always swinging.

Join Geoff Anderson on the Vinyl Vault, on Tuesday, May 24, at 8:30 pm for some Kansas City piano playing on KUVO JAZZ.

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