Experience the electrifying energy of Donald Byrd's legendary 1973 performance at the Montreux Jazz Festival with the official release of "Live: Cookin' with Blue Note at Montreux." This captivating live album, recorded in Switzerland and meticulously mixed in Los Angeles, offers a thrilling journey through the genres of hard bop, jazz funk, and soul jazz, showcasing Byrd's mastery of the trumpet and his innovative approach to jazz fusion and acid jazz.
Featuring six dynamic tracks, including the iconic "Black Byrd" and Stevie Wonder's "You've Got It Bad Girl," this album is a testament to Byrd's enduring influence on the jazz scene. The setlist also includes "The East," a composition by Byrd himself, and "Introductions," providing a unique insight into his creative process. The album concludes with "Kwame" and "Poco-Mania," further highlighting the band's exceptional musicianship and Byrd's virtuosic playing.
Originally recorded for Blue Note Records and produced by George Butler, this live album was inexplicably shelved until Byrd's passing in 2013. Now, fans and newcomers alike can finally experience this historic performance, which has been masterfully remastered for vinyl and CD. With a runtime of just under 45 minutes, "Live: Cookin' with Blue Note at Montreux" is a powerful reminder of Donald Byrd's lasting legacy and his contributions to the world of jazz.