Step back in time with "Jazz At Oberlin," a captivating live album from The Dave Brubeck Quartet, set to release on November 10, 2023, via Craft Recordings. This gem captures the quartet's electrifying performance at Oberlin College in 1953, offering a rare glimpse into the early days of one of jazz's most influential groups.
The album is a concise yet powerful collection of five tracks, each a testament to the quartet's virtuosity and innovative approach to cool jazz. With a runtime of just 37 minutes, it's a swift journey through some of the most beloved standards of the era, including "The Way You Look Tonight," "How High The Moon," and "Stardust." Each track showcases the quartet's signature blend of technical prowess and melodic sophistication, with Dave Brubeck's unique piano playing at the forefront.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet, featuring Brubeck on piano, Paul Desmond on alto saxophone, Bob Bates on bass, and Joe Dodge on drums, was known for their adventurous time signatures and intricate compositions. This live recording is no exception, offering a raw and dynamic snapshot of the group's live performances. The interplay between Brubeck and Desmond is particularly noteworthy, their musical conversation a highlight of the album.
"Jazz At Oberlin" is not just a historical artifact; it's a vibrant display of the quartet's enduring appeal. The album's warm, intimate sound quality brings the listener right to the heart of the performance, making it a delightful experience for both longtime fans and those new to the world of cool jazz.