Red Norvo, born Kenneth Norville on March 31, 1908, was a pioneering force in the world of jazz, renowned primarily for his work on the xylophone, vibraphone, and marimba. With a career that spanned over several decades, Norvo brought a unique melodic sensibility and sophisticated harmonies to the jazz scene, earning him the moniker “Mr. Swing”. His innovative approach not only extended the range and repertoire of his chosen instruments but also played a pivotal role in the transition from the swing era to the cooler, more modern jazz sounds of the bebop and post-bop periods.

Throughout his illustrious career, Red Norvo performed with a veritable who’s who of jazz, including stints with Benny Goodman, Woody Herman, Charlie Mingus, and Frank Sinatra, among others. His ensembles varied in size and style, but perhaps his most celebrated work came in the form of the Red Norvo Trio, which featured guitar and bass alongside his vibraphone, creating intimate yet intricate musical conversations. As evidenced by releases like "Red Norvo In Hi-Fi" and the historical "1940s V-Disc Collection," Norvo's discography showcases his versatility and wide-ranging influence in jazz music. Whether through his virtuosic solo performances, as heard on "At the Xylophone," or his collaborative endeavors chronicled in the "Jazz Chronicles: Red Norvo" series, Red Norvo's legacy as a jazz innovator and a master of mallet instruments is both profound and enduring.

Genres

Cool Jazz

Jazz Vibraphone

Swing

Vintage Jazz

Latest Release

Trio

Red Norvo

Album - 12 Tracks - Released September 26, 2022