"Easy: Stanley Turrentine Plays The Pop Hits" is a vibrant and engaging album released by the legendary saxophonist Stanley Turrentine on January 1, 1998, under Blue Note Records. This album is a unique blend of jazz genres, including hard bop, soul jazz, cool jazz, and bebop, offering a rich and diverse listening experience. Clocking in at 1 hour and 14 minutes, the album features 15 tracks, each a jazz reinterpretation of popular hits from various eras.
Stanley Turrentine's mastery of the saxophone shines through in his renditions of classics like "Can't Buy Me Love," "Hey Jude," and "Blowin' In The Wind." His soulful and dynamic playing is complemented by a stellar ensemble of musicians, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere throughout the album. Turrentine's ability to infuse these well-known tunes with his distinctive jazz style makes "Easy" a standout in his discography.
The album opens with a lively take on The Beatles' "Can't Buy Me Love," setting the tone for the rest of the collection. Tracks like "Spooky" and "Light My Fire" showcase Turrentine's versatility, while "MacArthur Park" and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" highlight his ability to blend jazz with soulful melodies. The inclusion of "Fool On The Hill" and "Little Green Apples" adds a touch of cool jazz to the mix, demonstrating Turrentine's range and adaptability.
"Easy: Stanley Turrentine Plays The Pop Hits" is a testament to Turrentine's enduring talent and his ability to breathe new life into familiar songs. Whether you're a longtime fan of jazz or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a delightful journey through the world of jazz reinterpretations of popular music.