I know what you’re thinking the minute you hear the title of this new DVD: who is Louis Prima? But for many fans they love the voice of the fun loving singer from way back when. And you’ll be stunned when I tell you that anyone who’s seen THE JUNGLE BOOK knows Louis. He was the voice of King Louie of the apes. Yeah, that was him!
His music and playing can be heard in movies like CASINO, RAGING BULL and ANALYZE THIS. This connects him with a number of movies based in the Italian scene of the fifties. But the fact was that Prima was loved by all.
Prima was noted for his jazz and swing styled playing and singing. At ease with a trumpet or vocally, Prima led his band into fame and fortune and was recognized by many as a talent to be reckoned with. There are a number of tunes he was famous for and while not all are represented here at least a few are.
The disc is made up of both commentary by Prima’s son and by the performances collected for the disc. It’s those performances that make it worth watching and having in your collection. If you’ve never heard Prima then this is a good place to start.
Included are songs where he sings with Keely Smith (who became his fourth wife) and with Gia Maione (his fifth wife). Most recognizable for many will be the songs “Buona Sera” and “Just a Gigolo” which was later a hit for David Lee Roth. But there are more great tunes to be witnessed and enjoyed on this disc.
The greatest thing that the disc offers is a chance to see a legend actually perform his own material. It’s rare that this sort of opportunity exists and when it does it should be taken advantage of. And at a price of just $16, it’s worth the investment for music, jazz and swing fans.
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