Charlie Calzaretta (1921-1986) was a Chicago area vibraphonist who recorded with the Art Van Damme quintet in the 1940s and 1950s. I love discovering musicians like this – he was clearly a total pro and could swing with anyone. It’s kind of a shame that he never recorded anything under his own name, but at least we have the recordings he did make. It’s worth a rabbit hole for sure.
This is his vibraphone solo on the tune ‘Blue Lou’, recorded with the Art Van Damme Quintet in 1953 for the album ‘Martini Time’. It’s a swinging record – kind of reminds me of George Shearing stuff from the same time. This solo is burning – check out the videos that I made about Charlie and this solo. There is lots here to learn from. Charlie Calzaretta is a name more people should know.
This PDF will be available for a limited time. If you enjoy these, check out some of my online courses or the Killer Jazz Vibes Book.
