"Almost Like Being in Love" is a classic show tune by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe, famously interpreted by jazz pianist Red Garland on his 1957 album Red Garland's Piano. Garland’s rendition is celebrated for its swinging feel, inventive chord voicings, and lyrical improvisation, making it a standout track in his discography and a favorite among jazz piano enthusiasts.
Recording and Album Context
- Album: Red Garland's Piano (Prestige Records, 1957)
- Recording Date: March 22, 1957
- Personnel:
- Red Garland – piano
- Paul Chambers – bass
- Art Taylor – drums
This album was Garland’s third as a leader and features a trio format, allowing his expressive, melodic style to shine. At the time, Garland was a key member of Miles Davis’s first great quintet, and his solo albums were highly regarded for their accessible, swinging interpretations of standards1234.
Musical Style and Interpretation
Garland’s approach to "Almost Like Being in Love" is marked by:
- Distinctive Chord Voicings: His signature bell-like block chords and left-hand punctuations give the tune a buoyant, urbane quality24.
- Melodic Improvisation: Garland’s solo is both creative and melodic, balancing technical skill with a strong sense of lyricism.
- Swing Feel: Supported by Chambers’s steady bass and Taylor’s subtle brushwork, the trio delivers a relaxed yet swinging performance that exemplifies straight-ahead jazz at its best24.
- Arrangement: The track runs approximately 4:52, offering a concise but memorable exploration of the standard23.
Critical Reception
Critics and jazz fans praise Garland’s performance for its consistency, creativity, and solid sense of swing. Scott Yanow notes that Garland "plays up to his usual consistent level, making this an easily recommended disc for straight-ahead fans," highlighting the pianist’s ability to bring freshness to familiar material24.
Key Facts Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Composer | Alan Jay Lerner, Frederick Loewe |
| Album | Red Garland's Piano (1957) |
| Recording Date | March 22, 1957 |
| Personnel | Red Garland (piano), Paul Chambers (bass), Art Taylor (drums) |
| Style | Swinging jazz trio, melodic improvisation, block chords |
| Track Length | 4:52 |
| Legacy | Jazz piano standard, praised for swing and lyricism |
Summary
Red Garland’s "Almost Like Being in Love" is a joyful, swinging jazz trio interpretation that showcases his distinctive chord voicings, melodic improvisation, and impeccable sense of rhythm. Supported by Paul Chambers and Art Taylor, Garland transforms the Broadway standard into a vibrant, accessible jazz classic, making it a highlight of his 1957 album and a lasting favorite among jazz listeners234.
