Bennie Wallace's "Enja 24-Bit Master Edition: Mystic Bridge" is a captivating journey through the realms of hard bop and free jazz, released on January 1, 1982, under the ENJA RECORDS Matthias Winckelmann label. This reissue offers a crisp, high-quality 24-bit remastering of the original recording, allowing listeners to fully appreciate Wallace's masterful saxophone work and his band's dynamic interplay.
The album opens with "The Bob Crosby Blues," setting a soulful tone that carries through to the title track "Mystic Bridge," a piece that showcases Wallace's ability to blend lyrical melodies with complex improvisations. "My One and Only Love" offers a tender, romantic moment, while "Foxtrot" brings a playful, upbeat energy. The album also features the intriguing two-part piece "'Llowed/Head" and concludes with "Outline," a track that ties together the diverse elements of the record.
With a runtime of 46 minutes, "Mystic Bridge" is a testament to Bennie Wallace's versatility and innovation as a saxophonist and composer. The album's blend of hard bop's rhythmic drive and free jazz's exploratory spirit makes it a standout in Wallace's discography and a compelling listen for jazz enthusiasts.
Vinylscout