"Lush Life: The Music of Billy Strayhorn" by Joe Henderson is a captivating tribute to the legendary composer and pianist Billy Strayhorn, released in 1992 under the Verve label. This album is a masterful blend of hard bop, bebop, free jazz, and cool jazz, showcasing Henderson's extraordinary talent on the tenor saxophone. Recorded in Englewood Cliffs, this collection of Strayhorn's compositions is performed with a relaxed and luxurious elegance, highlighting the depth and richness of Strayhorn's musical legacy.
The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including three former members of Miles Davis's band, adding a layer of sophistication and depth to the performances. Tracks like "Lush Life," "Take the A Train," and "U.M.M.G. (Upper Manhattan Medical Group)" are rendered with a fresh perspective, while "A Flower Is a Lovesome Thing" and "Blood Count" showcase Henderson's virtuosic playing and emotional resonance.
"Lush Life" is not just a tribute but a celebration of Strayhorn's enduring influence on jazz. The album's critical acclaim and commercial success, including topping the Billboard jazz chart in 1992, underscore its significance in the jazz canon. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a timeless exploration of Strayhorn's compositions, performed with the skill and passion of one of jazz's greatest saxophonists.
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