Various Artists
Concord, 2021, CD
Instrument: Instrumental
Issue: 28.1
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 86
O’s Notes: This is our first take of the On Contemporary Series, The Saxophonists features all of the legends in their prime. Sonny Rollins plays “I’m An Old Cowhand”. Ornette Coleman plays “Invisible”. There’s a true left-right stereo recording of “Grooveyard” by Harold Land. We liked the large ensemble surrounding Benny Goodson on “Whisper Not”. Art Pepper adds soul on “You’d Be So Nice To Come Home To” and “Smack Up”. Ben Webster’s concludes the set with a passionate take of “Georgia On My Mind”. Listening to these classics helps us realize the endless passion that these saxophonists played with, well beyond shear athleticism and speed.
Publicist: Concord
