Ron Kalina & Jim Self — The Odd Couple (2008 CD) — Used

Ron Kalina & Jim Self — The Odd Couple (2008 CD)

An inventive and delightful jazz collaboration pairing Ron Kalina's expressive chromatic harmonica with Jim Self's agile tuba and Fluba. Backed by guitarist Larry Koonse, bassist Tom Warrington and drummer Joe La Barbera, the musicians transform bebop classics, Brazilian melodies, ballads and the familiar television theme into fresh, swinging conversations. Originally released on Basset Hound Records in 2008, The Odd Couple proves that this unusual instrumental combination can be both beautifully lyrical and exhilaratingly nimble.

Complete Track Listing — 12 Tracks

1. No More Mr. Nice Guy
2. The Odd Couple
3. The Dolphin
4. Friends Again
5. Stolen Moments
6. To Monica
7. I'm All Smiles
8. Confirmation
9. Someone to Light Up My Life
10. You Must Believe in Spring
11. Donna Lee
12. Odd Couple (Fade Out)

Musicians

Ron Kalina — chromatic harmonica
Jim Self — tuba and Fluba (tracks 1, 2 and 4)
Larry Koonse — electric and acoustic guitars
Tom Warrington — string bass
Joe La Barbera — drums

Five Interesting Facts

1. Kalina and Self previously recorded together on Self's 1983 album Children at Play, reviving their distinctive musical partnership decades later.
2. Jim Self plays his own hybrid brass instrument, the Fluba, on tracks 1, 2 and 4.
3. The repertoire includes Charlie Parker's demanding bebop pieces “Confirmation” and “Donna Lee,” played with harmonica and tuba.
4. The title track adapts Neal Hefti's recognizable theme from The Odd Couple television series.
5. Jazz critic Don Heckman wrote the album's liner notes, praising the surprising musical compatibility of the two lead instruments.

CD Details

Artists: Ron Kalina and Jim Self
Title: The Odd Couple
Release: 2008
Label: Basset Hound Records
Catalog: BHR 110-2
Genre: Jazz / Bebop / Contemporary Jazz
Format: Audio CD
UPC: 676011011023
Condition: Used

Used CD and packaging may show normal signs of handling or wear.