Benny Golson and Friends - The Classic Years - Benny Golson

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the golden era of jazz with "Benny Golson and Friends - The Classic Years," a meticulously curated collection that spans over two and a half hours of pure musical genius. Released on July 1, 2021, via P.E.R Recordings, this album is a testament to the enduring legacy of saxophonist Benny Golson, a veteran and garlanded figure in the world of jazz.

This compilation brings together a rich tapestry of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz, showcasing Golson's unparalleled talent and his contributions to the genre. The album features a diverse range of tracks, from the sultry "Whisper Not" and the upbeat "Step Lightly" to the evocative "Out of the Past" and the lively "Jubilation." Each piece is a masterclass in composition and performance, highlighting Golson's distinctive style and his ability to blend sophistication with accessibility.

"Benny Golson and Friends - The Classic Years" is not just a collection of songs; it's a journey through the classic years of jazz, featuring some of the most iconic and influential works from Benny Golson's illustrious career. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a comprehensive and enjoyable exploration of Golson's artistry. With its rich history and timeless appeal, this album is a celebration of jazz at its finest, capturing the essence of an era that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

1 juli 2021

2021 P.E.R Music

About Benny Golson

Benny Golson, the legendary American jazz tenor saxophonist, composer, and arranger, left an indelible mark on the music world with his distinctive style and timeless compositions. Born in Philadelphia in 1929, Golson's career spanned over six decades, during which he became renowned for his work with big bands led by Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie. His compositions, such as "Whisper Not," "Blues March," "Killer Joe," and "Along Came Betty," are celebrated for their harmonic complexity and melodic elegance, making him one of the few jazz instrumentalists more celebrated for his compositions than his performances.

Golson co-founded and co-led The Jazztet with trumpeter Art Farmer in 1959, a group that showcased his talents as both a performer and an arranger. Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, he was highly sought after for his arranging skills in film and television, which temporarily shifted his focus away from performing. However, Golson and Farmer reunited The Jazztet in 1982, continuing to captivate audiences with their unique blend of hard bop and cool jazz. Golson's contributions to jazz are a testament to his enduring legacy, making him a beloved figure in the genre.