The Jazz Real Book

“Have You Met Miss Jones?” and Art Tatum (143) 

Written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart in 1937, “Have You Met Miss Jones?” became a jazz standard celebrated for its sophisticated harmony, particularly its bridge, which moves through three major key centers separated by major thirds. Pianist Art Tatum, one of jazz’s greatest virtuosos, recorded the composition in 1953 for producer Norman Granz. Renowned for his extraordinary technique, harmonic imagination, and dazzling improvisations, Tatum transformed familiar melodies into intricate musical statements. His interpretation demonstrates remarkable reharmonization, fluid phrasing, and rhythmic freedom without sacrificing the song’s melodic identity. Tatum’s approach profoundly influenced generations of jazz pianists, including Oscar Peterson, who also recorded the standard.

Art Tatum 1953 
Oscar Peterson Trio 
The Jazz Real Book Podcast Playlist Vol. 2

New Jersey-based jazz guitarist and composer Larry Corban returns with his sixth album, Beyond the Grid, released in October 2026 on Deko Entertainment. The recording features an exceptional quartet with bassist and producer Harvie S, two-time Grammy nominee Miki Hayama on piano, Fender Rhodes, organ, and synthesizer, and Jason Tiemann on drums and percussion.
Building on the success of his previous releases, including Corban Nation and Emergence, Corban continues to explore the intersection of straight-ahead jazz, contemporary harmony, and adventurous improvisation. His music reflects a deep appreciation for the hard bop and post-bop traditions of the 1960s while maintaining a distinctly modern voice.
Beyond The Grid represents another chapter in Corban's evolution as a guitarist, composer, and bandleader, bringing together accomplished musicians whose collective experience and creativity promise an engaging musical experience.

“Half Nelson” and Nelson Boyd
Miles Davis’ “Half Nelson,” recorded on August 14, 1947, is a classic bebop example and a tribute to bassist Nelson Boyd (1928–1985), who played on the original session. Based on the chord changes of Tadd Dameron’s “Lady Bird,” the composition features a 32-bar AABA form, angular melodic lines, syncopation, and sophisticated harmonic movement. The recording includes Charlie Parker on tenor saxophone, John Lewis on piano, Boyd on bass, and Max Roach on drums. Davis delivers some of his finest early bebop playing, while Parker’s unusual tenor sound and Roach’s energetic breaks stand out. Born in Camden, New Jersey, Boyd worked with such jazz giants as Dizzy Gillespie, Coleman Hawkins, and Fats Navarro. Although often overlooked, Boyd contributed significantly to bebop’s development and also participated in Davis’s historic Birth of the Cool sessions.

Miles Davis 1947
Miles Davis 1951-Live Version 
The Jazz Real Book Playlist Vol. 2

Cyrus Chestnut Interview
Pianist Cyrus Chestnut has spent more than four decades establishing himself as one of jazz’s most distinctive and soulful voices. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Chestnut developed his musical foundation through gospel, classical music, and the blues before studying at Berklee College of Music. His remarkable career includes collaborations with Betty Carter, Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, Donald Harrison, and Jon Hendricks, along with an extensive catalog of recordings as a leader. Known for his extraordinary technique, swinging rhythms, and deep gospel influences, Chestnut continues to captivate audiences worldwide. On Saturday, November 28, 2026, he will receive the prestigious Giants of Jazz Award at the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC), recognizing his outstanding contributions to jazz. Despite his accomplishments, Chestnut remains remarkably humble, viewing himself as a lifelong student of music. For him, the greatest reward has always been the opportunity to inspire others through his art.

“Gypsy In My Soul” and Mildred Bailey (141) 
Written in 1937 by Clay Boland and Moe Jaffe, “Gypsy in My Soul” became a popular jazz standard, celebrated for its memorable melody and swinging character. The lyrics explore themes of freedom, restlessness, and the desire for adventure. One of its finest interpretations came from vocalist Mildred Bailey, a pioneering swing-era singer known for her effortless phrasing and warm, expressive voice. Recorded in December 1945, Bailey's version features an outstanding small ensemble, including vibraphonist Red Norvo, whose fluid solo beautifully complements her vocals. The performance captures Bailey's remarkable ability to swing with subtlety, sophistication, and relaxed musical freedom.
Mildred Bailey 
Oscar Peterson Trio 
The Jazz Real Book Playlist Vol. 2