"Modern Jacobite" is a bold and ambitious album by renowned Scottish saxophonist, composer, and educator Tommy Smith, featuring the powerful backing of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. Released in 2016, this 47-minute masterpiece is a testament to Smith's innovative spirit and his ability to blend classical and jazz elements seamlessly.
The album's centerpiece is Smith's original composition "Jacobite," a dramatic and intricate symphonic work for saxophone and orchestra. This three-part suite, inspired by the Jacobite risings of 1689, 1715, and 1745, is a tour de force of musical storytelling, weaving Scottish folk tunes into a rich and evocative tapestry. Smith's composition is not just a historical retelling but a deeply personal and passionate exploration of themes that resonate universally.
In addition to his original work, Smith offers fresh interpretations of classic pieces. The album opens with his orchestration of Rachmaninov's "Vocalise," a hauntingly beautiful adaptation that showcases Smith's saxophone prowess. The album also features Smith's unique take on Chick Corea's "Children's Songs," which are interspersed with improvisational sections that highlight Smith's virtuosic skills and creative genius.
Conducted by Clark Rundell and orchestrated by Smith himself, "Modern Jacobite" is a testament to the power of collaboration and the boundless possibilities of musical expression. Whether you're a fan of jazz, classical, or simply great music, this album is a captivating journey through the mind of one of Europe's leading jazz artists.
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