Charles Bell

[B. Goren.]

I have encountered his name for the first time this morning while listening to "The Jazz Piano" (Mosaic Singles MCD-1012).

I wanted to find out who's playing Whisper Not and Saw Bell's name. I have never heard about him before and an internet search didn’t bring up much information. I understand he was not a star or a major figure in the jazz world but I really like his playing. Does anybody know what else has he done in his life? Is he still with us? Any other recommended recordings by Charles Bell?

Edited March 29, 2011 by B. Goren.

[jazzbo]

I know of two recordings, one on Atlantic and one on Columbia, the first of which I've had since I was 14 or so, and it's great. He was an interesting player, a sort of John Lewis aesthetic in some ways. Don't know much about his life, etc. but I can recommend both albums by Charles Bell and the Contemporary Jazz Quartet if you can find them. I like the Atlantic best.

http://www.discogs.com/Charles-Bell-and-Contemporary-Jazz-Quartet-Another-Dimension/release/1983725

http://www.discogs.com/Charles-Bell-Contemporary-Jazz-Quartet-The-Contemporary-Jazz-Quartet/release/2042351

[B. Goren.]

Thanks a lot, Lon.