Mark Whitty - The Complete Fine Tunes

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This CD is two CDs in one. The Complete Fine Tunes is comprised of Play It Again Boys and Under The Influence. Both are totally different entities so I will address them as such.

Play It Again Boys features Mark Whitty I and his two oldest boys (Patrick and Richard) as the main musicians on the disc. When the disc was first recorded it was by the 3 fellas as 'Doctor Jazz & Sons' and titled Jazz BBQ at Narooma. At that time it was in cassette form. That was in the early 80s when both of his boys were just that - BOYS. They were 10 and 11 then and hearing their prowess on the clarinet and trombone is just incredible. Their musicianship is extremely professional and you'd almost bet they came out of the womb with their prospective instruments in hand! However, Mark Sr. would make sure to tell you this wasn't the case considering he provided them with the opportunity for numerous lessons from early elementary ages and beyond. Mark Sr. is no slouch either when it comes to his musicianship. I will go into that more when I discuss the other music that is included in this disc. This disc was re-mastered in 2001 and had drums and guitar added at that time. This part of the disc I think deserves a 9+ because of the incredible talent of the boys. I have an 11 year old that just started playing in band in school - so hearing their talent was quite a treat for me!

Under The Influence is a little different in sound. It is still is Jazz 'a la Fats, Louis, Duke, Hoagy & Jelly Roll' but it was recorded in 2000 and Mark Sr.'s vocals are added to the mix - very nice to the ear. Also this disc is a tribute to some of Mark's favorite jazz artists, some he had the pleasure of playing for and with. Reading the liner notes really adds to the meaning of this disc. The boys also have also grown into men when this disc was recorded and their playing is perfection. Patrick has added a saxophone to his repertoire and Richard has added guitar and producer to his as well! Mark's ability to arrange, and lead his sons to this type of achievement puts him on the top of my list not only as a musician, but, as a father who has effectively trained his sons in great talent. It speaks a lot of his character when his GROWN sons still wish to produce music with him. This disc gives you the 'old time swing jazz' feel. This part of the disc I give a 9+ as well! Inspiring fun!

Songwriting - 9.5 out of 10. Play It Again Boys is full of standards, however, Under The Influence is full of Mark's songs for different artists: Freddy Thomas, Tommy Davidson, Harry Price, Denis Farrington, Les Cooper, Freddy Harrison, Des Edwards, The Tortoise and MORE! All incredible Aussie musicians, of whom many were great friends of Mr. Whitty. His lyrics are sweet and speak of the 'musos' talents. They are all written well musically, too. If you weren't paying attention, you would just enjoy the tunes.review by Jen Lush, Midwestbands.com, 12/23/04