Gerry Mulligan, a titan of cool jazz and bebop, invites you into his world with "Verve Ultimate Cool." This 2013 compilation, released by Decca (UMO), is a testament to Mulligan's mastery of the baritone saxophone and his enduring influence on jazz. The album spans a variety of genres within jazz, including cool jazz, bebop, and hard bop, showcasing Mulligan's versatility and innovation.
"Verve Ultimate Cool" is a blend of studio and live performances, with tracks recorded between 1957 and 1962. The live recordings, such as "Body And Soul" from the Village Vanguard in 1960 and "Laura" from the Hollywood Bowl in 1957, capture the energy and spontaneity of Mulligan's performances, while studio tracks like "Chelsea Bridge" and "The Lady Is A Tramp" showcase his meticulous artistry.
The album opens with "What It's All About," setting the tone for a journey through Mulligan's discography. Standout tracks include "Big City Blues," a live performance from Webster Hall in New York City, and "Mullenium," a track that highlights Mulligan's unique compositional style. The album concludes with "The Lady Is A Tramp," a classic that Mulligan makes his own.
With a duration of just over an hour, "Verve Ultimate Cool" is a concise yet comprehensive introduction to Gerry Mulligan's work. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's excellent sound quality, as noted by reviewers, ensures that every note is clear and every nuance is audible, making it a pleasure to listen to from start to finish.
Vinylscout