"Late Date" is a captivating journey through the world of jazz, featuring the legendary guitarist Herb Ellis. Released on February 16, 2018, this album is a testament to Ellis' mastery of the genre, spanning cool jazz, bebop, and traditional jazz styles. With a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes, this album offers an extensive collection of 21 tracks, each showcasing Ellis' virtuosic guitar work and deep understanding of jazz vocabulary.
The album opens with "Detour Ahead," setting the tone for the sophisticated and engaging music that follows. Ellis' fluency in the Charlie Christian/Les Paul style is evident throughout, as he navigates both up-tempo numbers like "Big Red's Boogie Woogie" and ballads such as "Sweet Lorraine." The album also features Ellis' original compositions, including "Patti Cake," "Phil's Tune," and "Ellis in Wonderland," which demonstrate his unique voice as a composer.
"Late Date" is a collaboration between Ellis and other renowned musicians, including Barney Kessel and Charlie Byrd, who share his deep respect for jazz tradition. The album's diverse tracklist ranges from standards like "Have You Met Miss Jones" and "It Could Happen to You" to blues-infused pieces like "Blues for Junior" and "Pap's Blues." Ellis' playing is both technically impressive and deeply expressive, making this album a delight for jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.
Recorded under the Nagel Heyer Records label, "Late Date" is a celebration of Herb Ellis' remarkable career and his enduring impact on the world of jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ellis' work or new to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the timeless appeal of jazz.
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