About this Artist

• Biography

Editorial Reviews

Largely self-taught, Art Tatum became one of the most accomplished pianists of the 20th century, and his polyrhythmic inventiveness on the instrument has seldom -- if ever -- been equaled. British record label Proper has assembled a budget-priced, four-disc box set spanning Tatum's prime years, an impressive 90-plus tracks (and a detailed 44 page booklet) that showcase the speed and clarity of this amazing musician. Most of the tracks are Tatum playing solo, but highlights from a 1944 all-star jazz concert at the Esquire Metropolitan Opera House are also included, as well as cuts from the Art Tatum Trio, with Tiny Grimes on guitar and Slam Stewart on bass. Tatum is generally considered a stride pianist, but he was so much more, and dropping in anywhere on these four discs will reveal some jaw-dropping piano music. A fine set, in which a master gets his due. Steve Leggett, All Music Guide

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