"Looking at Bird" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Danish bassist Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen, released on January 1, 1986, under the SteepleChase label. This bebop masterpiece pays homage to the iconic Charlie "Bird" Parker, featuring a collection of standards and original compositions that showcase Ørsted Pedersen's virtuosity and deep respect for the jazz tradition.
The album kicks off with "Moose the Mooche," a classic Parker tune, followed by a heartfelt rendition of "Embraceable You." Ørsted Pedersen's bass takes center stage, accompanied by a stellar ensemble that includes some of the finest musicians in the genre. The tracklist also includes "Ornithology," "Billie's Bounce," and "Yardbird Suite," all of which are staples in the bebop repertoire.
"Blues for Alice" and "How Deep Is the Ocean" offer a blend of blues and jazz, highlighting Ørsted Pedersen's versatility and technical prowess. The album concludes with "Confirmation," another Parker classic, bringing the 44-minute journey to a satisfying close.
Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen, often hailed as one of the greatest bassists in jazz history, delivers a performance that is both innovative and deeply rooted in the bebop tradition. His playing is characterized by its clarity, precision, and a profound understanding of the music's rhythmic and melodic intricacies. This album is a testament to his genius and a celebration of the bebop legacy.
Vinylscout