CHET BAKER - As Time Goes By (1986-2020) RM / FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

While Baker's chops are clearly subpar there is a quaint romanticism to it all that somehow snares the listener. Performing with a first-rate trio (pianist Harold Danko, bassist Jon Burr, and drummer Ben Riley), the trumpeter runs through ten tunes, most of which Baker has recorded before. Nonetheless, the more than an hour of recording time gives everyone a chance to stretch. And, Baker's vocals on "As Time Goes By" and "Round Midnight" are never tiring. Baker is a more than a bit muddled in his singing, sounding as though his mouth is filled with steel wool. Yet, the feelings he displays are so pure and touching that every note is imbued with deep emotion. Most of the songs are performed slowly, sometimes heart-wrenchingly so. While Baker seems tired, there is a cool, raw touch throughout, making this a decent example of the trumpeter's later playing. His range seems even more limited than usual, too. Danko is a thorough joy, and plays splendidly in support. by Steve Loewy
Tracklist :
1    You And The Night And The Music 5:24
Vocals – Chet Baker
Written By – Arthur Schwartz, Howard Dietz
2    As Time Goes By 6:40
Written-By – Hupfeld
3    My Melancholy Baby 6:52
Written-By – Burnett, A. Norton, Watson
4    I'm A Fool To Want You 8:38
Written-By – Wolf, Herron
5    When She Smiles 6:00
Written-By – Harold Danko
6    Sea Breeze 6:54
Written-By – Jon Burr
7    You Have Been Here All Along 7:37
Written-By – Jon Burr
8    Angel Eyes 6:04
Written By – Earl K. Brent, Matt Dennis
9    You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To 4:27
Written-By – Cole Porter
10    Round Midnight 7:33
Written-By – Cootie Williams, Thelonious Monk
Credits :
Bass – Jon Burr
Drums – Ben Riley
Piano – Harold Danko
Trumpet, Vocals – Chet Baker