Montgomeryland

Album Description

Harold Land, a titan of the jazz scene, delivers a masterclass in hard bop and bebop with "Montgomeryland," released on January 1, 2000, under the CoolNote label. This concise yet powerful album clocks in at just 38 minutes, packing a punch with eight essential tracks that showcase Land's virtuosity on the saxophone.

"Montgomeryland" is a collaborative effort, featuring the legendary Montgomery Brothers—Wes, Buddy, and Monk—alongside Harold Land and Pony Poindexter. The album's title track, "Montgomeryland," sets the stage for a journey through classic jazz standards and original compositions. Standout tracks like "Summertime" and "Old Folks" offer fresh interpretations of beloved songs, while "Wes' Tune" and "Renie" highlight the collaborative spirit and musical chemistry between Land and the Montgomery Brothers.

The album's brevity belies its depth, with each track offering a rich tapestry of sound and improvisation. From the upbeat energy of "Falling In Love With Love" to the laid-back cool of "Leila," "Montgomeryland" is a testament to the enduring appeal of jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

1 januari 2000

2000 CoolNote

About Harold Land

Harold Land, born in Houston, Texas, and raised in San Diego, California, is a renowned figure in the world of jazz, known for his significant contributions to hard bop and post-bop genres. Land's musical journey began in the late 1940s in Los Angeles, where he honed his skills before joining the legendary Max Roach/Clifford Brown Quintet in 1954. His tenure with this iconic group allowed him to develop a distinctive, modern style that often rivaled the virtuosity of his bandmates, earning him a reputation for inventive and emotionally resonant solos.

Land's strong, expressive tone on the tenor saxophone is marked by a unique blend of power and introspection, making his performances both captivating and deeply personal. Emerging from the competitive West Coast jazz scene of the mid-1950s, Land's legacy as a pioneer of hard bop is evident in his influential recordings and collaborations. His discography, including albums like "Harold in the Land of Jazz" and "The Fox," showcases his artistic evolution and enduring impact on the jazz landscape. Land's ability to blend technical prowess with a whimsical, introspective approach has solidified his place as a beloved and influential figure in jazz history.