Brownie Eyes

Album Description

"Brownie Eyes" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary trumpeter Clifford Brown, released posthumously on January 10, 1974, under Applause Records. This collection of nine tracks offers a rich blend of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz, showcasing Brown's virtuosity and innovative spirit. The album features some of Brown's final studio recordings before his untimely death in 1956, making it a poignant tribute to his enduring legacy.

The album opens with "Hymn Of The Orient," a piece that sets the tone for the rest of the journey with its intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity. Tracks like "Easy Living" and "Get Happy" highlight Brown's ability to infuse joy and energy into his performances, while "Cherokee (Indian Love Song)" and "Bella Rosa" showcase his lyrical and expressive side. The title track, "Brownie Eyes," is a standout, demonstrating Brown's signature style and technical prowess.

"Brownie Eyes" is not just a collection of songs but a testament to Clifford Brown's influence on jazz. His playing is characterized by a warm, mainstream approach that avoids being overshadowed by the styles of his contemporaries. The album also features contributions from other notable musicians, including pianist Richie Powell, adding depth and richness to the overall sound.

With a total runtime of just over 35 minutes, "Brownie Eyes" is a concise yet powerful exploration of jazz in its various forms. Whether you're a long-time fan of Clifford Brown or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling introduction to his genius and a reminder of what might have been if his career had not been cut short.

10 januari 1974

About Clifford Brown

Clifford Brown, born in Wilmington, Delaware in 1930, was a prodigious jazz trumpeter whose brief yet impactful career left an indelible mark on the genre. Despite his life being tragically cut short in a car accident at the age of 25 in 1956, Brown's influence endures. He synthesized the styles of Dizzy Gillespie and Fats Navarro, forging his own distinctive and articulate voice. His recorded output, spanning just four years, includes seminal works like the 1955 album "Study In Brown," a collaboration with Max Roach that showcases his potent trumpet skills. Brown's legacy is celebrated for his intelligent and fluent playing, making him one of the most important figures in jazz history.