Experience the electrifying energy of a legendary live performance with Thad Jones' "Avec Amour (Live Paris '69)." This captivating album, released on May 4, 2023, by Wolf Tree, captures the essence of a historic concert featuring Thad Jones and Mel Lewis, along with the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra. Spanning a generous 1 hour and 45 minutes, this live recording is a testament to the enduring power of big band and hard bop jazz.
The album showcases 11 exhilarating tracks, each a masterclass in jazz composition and performance. From the sultry "Low Down" to the swinging "The Groove Merchant," every song is a testament to the band's virtuosity and Thad Jones' genius as a composer and trumpeter. The live setting adds an extra layer of excitement, with the energy of the Parisian audience palpable in every note.
Fans of bebop and big band jazz will find much to love in "Avec Amour (Live Paris '69)." The album is a thrilling journey through the jazz greats, with each track offering a unique blend of complexity and accessibility. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave you spellbound.
Thad Jones, a titan of the jazz world, shines brightly throughout the album. His trumpet playing is as powerful as ever, and his compositions continue to inspire and delight. Mel Lewis, another jazz legend, provides a steady and dynamic rhythm that drives the orchestra forward. Together, they lead the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra in a performance that is as memorable as it is musically impressive.
"Avec Amour (Live Paris '69)" is not just a live album; it's a snapshot of a moment in time, a celebration of jazz at its finest. It's an album that demands to be played loud, to be danced to, and to be enjoyed with friends. So, turn up the volume and let the magic of Thad Jones and his orchestra transport you to Paris, 1969.