"Lonesome Boulevard" is a captivating late-career recording by the legendary jazz saxophonist and composer Gerry Mulligan, released in 1990 under the A&M Jazz label. This album showcases Mulligan's enduring talent and his ability to blend various jazz styles, including cool jazz, bebop, and hard bop, into a cohesive and engaging collection of tracks.
Recorded in 1989, "Lonesome Boulevard" features a quartet format, allowing Mulligan and his fellow musicians to explore intricate melodies and improvisations. The album opens with the title track, "Lonesome Boulevard," setting the tone for the rest of the record with its introspective and lyrical phrasing. Other standout tracks include "I Heard The Shadows Dancing," which highlights the nimble solo work of the quartet, and "The Flying Scotsman," a lively and energetic piece that showcases Mulligan's virtuosity on the saxophone.
Throughout the album, Mulligan's compositional skills shine, with each track offering a unique blend of harmony, rhythm, and melody. The quartet's dynamic interplay is evident in tracks like "Good Neighbor Thelonius" and "Wallflower," where the musicians' individual talents complement each other beautifully. The album concludes with "Etude For Franca," a poignant and reflective piece that serves as a fitting finale to this remarkable collection.
"Lonesome Boulevard" is a testament to Gerry Mulligan's enduring influence on the jazz world. With its diverse range of styles and exceptional musicianship, this album is a must-listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to Mulligan's work. The album's 49-minute runtime offers a satisfying and immersive journey through the world of jazz, showcasing Mulligan's ability to create music that is both timeless and innovative.
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