Merry Christmas with Booker Ervin

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, soulful sounds of Booker Ervin with "Merry Christmas with Booker Ervin," a sprawling jazz album that spans over four hours and eighteen minutes. Released on November 25, 2014, under the Winter Holiday label, this collection is a testament to Ervin's distinctive tenor saxophone style, characterized by its hard, passionate tone and deep connection to chordal improvisation. The album is a treasure trove of 37 tracks, ranging from hard bop and bebop to free jazz, showcasing Ervin's versatility and mastery of the genre.

"Merry Christmas with Booker Ervin" features a mix of original compositions and jazz standards, each track offering a unique perspective on the jazz tradition. Standout pieces include "The Blue Book," "Autumn Leaves," "Cycles," and "Poinciana," each demonstrating Ervin's ability to blend technical prowess with heartfelt expression. The album also includes lesser-known gems like "Dee Da Doo," "Git It," and "Warp and Woof," providing a comprehensive look at Ervin's artistic range.

Booker Ervin, known for his unique voice in the jazz world, delivers a powerful performance that highlights his innovative approach to the tenor saxophone. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ervin's work or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. With its extensive tracklist and diverse selection of songs, "Merry Christmas with Booker Ervin" is a celebration of jazz in all its forms, making it an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

25 november 2014

Winter Holiday

About Booker Ervin

Booker Ervin, a towering figure in the world of jazz, was a tenor saxophonist known for his powerful, gritty tone and deeply emotional playing style. Born in Denison, Texas, Ervin's music was deeply rooted in the blues and gospel traditions, giving his performances an authentic and soulful edge. He gained prominence through his collaborations with legendary bassist Charles Mingus, contributing significantly to iconic albums like "Mingus Ah Um" and "Blues and Roots." Ervin's career, though tragically cut short by his untimely death at the age of 39, left an indelible mark on the jazz landscape. His discography, including standout albums like "The Freedom Book" and "The Blues Book," showcases his unique voice and innovative approach to hard bop and avant-garde jazz. Ervin's ability to blend technical virtuosity with raw emotional depth makes his music a timeless treasure for jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike.