Far Away Places
Benny Carter · Sax A La Carter [2004]
Far away over the sea
Those far away places with the strange sounding names are
Calling
Calling me
Goin' to China or maybe Siam
I wanna see for myself
Those far away places I've been reading about in a
Book that I took from a shelf
I start getting' restless whenever I hear the whistle of a train
I pray for the day I can get underway
And look for those castles in Spain
They call me a dreamer
Well maybe I am
But I know that I'm burning to see those
Far away places with the strange sounding names
Calling, calling me
Me
Far Away Places - Benny Carter
Benny Carter's 'Far Away Places' stands as a quintessential example of his mastery within the swing and jazz standards repertoire. Recorded for the compilation 'Sax A La Carter,' this track showcases Carter's signature ability to blend sophisticated harmonic structures with a warm, melodic approach that defined the mid-20th century. As a pivotal figure in jazz history, Carter's work often bridged the gap between traditional big band arrangements and the emerging soloist traditions, influencing generations of musicians who followed. The song reflects the era's emphasis on lyrical phrasing and rhythmic drive, capturing the essence of the swing era while maintaining a timeless appeal. Its enduring presence in the canon of jazz standards highlights Carter's contribution to the genre's evolution and his status as a respected vocalist and composer.