Donna Lee

Album Description

"Donna Lee" is a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of jazz, hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz, masterfully crafted by the legendary Benny Golson. Released on July 26, 2024, via VintageVibe Records, this album is a testament to Golson's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the jazz genre.

Spanning a generous 94 minutes, "Donna Lee" features a diverse collection of tracks that showcase Golson's virtuosity and innovative spirit. From the soulful "Soul Me" to the upbeat "Sock Cha," each song is a testament to Golson's ability to blend tradition with innovation. The album also includes notable compositions like "St. Louis Blues-Walkin'" and "Blues on My Mind," which highlight Golson's deep roots in the blues tradition.

The album opens with "Shades of Stein," setting the tone for a rich and immersive experience. Standout tracks like "Reunion" and "Blues March" demonstrate Golson's mastery of hard bop, while "Calgary" and "Drum Boogie" offer a taste of his bebop influences. The inclusion of "Donna Lee," a classic jazz standard, pays homage to the genre's rich history.

"Donna Lee" is not just a collection of songs; it's a celebration of Benny Golson's artistic journey. The album features a blend of original compositions and reinterpretations of classic tunes, all performed with Golson's signature style and flair. Whether you're a longtime fan of Benny Golson or a newcomer to his music, "Donna Lee" offers a compelling introduction to his unique sound and enduring influence.

26 juli 2024

2024 VintageVibe Records

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.