Dive into the rich legacy of jazz with Harold Land's "Four Classic Albums," a meticulously curated collection that spans four seminal works from the late 1950s and early 1960s. This double-CD set, released by AVID Jazz, offers an unparalleled journey through the evolution of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz, showcasing the masterful tenor saxophone playing of Harold Land.
The collection begins with "Harold in the Land of Jazz," recorded in 1958, where Land is supported by an ideal lineup that includes the likes of Elmo Hope on piano, Leroy Vinnegar on bass, and Frank Butler on drums. This album sets the stage with its blend of intricate melodies and swinging rhythms, highlighting Land's distinctive tone and improvisational prowess.
Next, "The Fox," recorded in 1959, continues to explore Land's artistic depth with a set of original compositions and standards. The album features a quintet that includes Harold Dahl on trombone, Victor Feldman on piano, Leroy Vinnegar on bass, and Frank Butler on drums, delivering a cohesive and dynamic sound.
"West Coast Blues!" from 1960 follows, offering a deeper dive into the blues-infused side of Land's repertoire. This album showcases his ability to blend soulful melodies with complex harmonies, backed by a stellar ensemble that includes Harold Dahl on trombone, Victor Feldman on piano, Leroy Vinnegar on bass, and Frank Butler on drums.
The collection concludes with "Eastward Ho! Harold Land in New York," recorded in 1960. This album captures Land's performance with a new lineup, including Tommy Flanagan on piano, Wilbur Ware on bass, and Max Roach on drums, as he explores both standards and original compositions with a fresh perspective.
With a total duration of over two and a half hours, "Four Classic Albums" is a comprehensive celebration of Harold Land's contributions to jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a rich tapestry of sounds that highlight the versatility and innovation of one of the genre's most influential figures.
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