Frank Wess, a legendary tenor saxophonist and flautist, invites you into a world of hard bop and jazz with his album "North, South, East, Wess and No Count." Released in 2012 under Fresh Sound Records, this album is a vibrant collection of 12 tracks that capture the essence of Wess's virtuosic playing and his deep roots in the Count Basie orchestra. The album features collaborations with jazz greats Frank Foster, Kenny Burrell, and Kenny Clarke, adding layers of depth and richness to the music.
Recorded in early March 1956, the tracks originally appeared on the Savoy albums "North South East...Wess" and "No Count." The spirit of Count Basie permeates these relaxed, swinging sessions, with five Basie alumni contributing to the sessions. The album's title reflects the diverse influences and directions that Wess explores, from the upbeat "What'd Ya Say?" and "Dancing on the Ceiling" to the more introspective "Salvation" and "Serenata."
With a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, "North, South, East, Wess and No Count" offers a comprehensive journey through Wess's musical prowess. The album's genres, hard bop and jazz, are showcased in tracks like "Hard Sock Dance" and "Excursion," where Wess's mastery of the saxophone shines. The album also includes a variety of moods and tempos, from the playful "Dill Pickels" to the soulful "Apron Strings."
This album is a testament to Frank Wess's enduring legacy in the world of jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, "North, South, East, Wess and No Count" is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout