"Once Upon a Time in Argentina" by George Haslam is a captivating journey into the heart of free jazz and hard bop, released in 2010 under the UK-based Slam Productions label. This double CD, catalogued as SLAMCD327, is a testament to Haslam's mastery of the tarogato and baritone saxophone, accompanied by the stellar talents of Sergio Paolucci on alto saxophone, Ruben Ferrero on piano and percussion, and Jorge Savelon on percussion.
The album spans a generous 72 minutes, featuring 19 tracks that weave a rich tapestry of sounds and rhythms. From the haunting melodies of "Departure" to the lively energy of "Carnival" and the soulful "All Night Soul," each piece is a unique exploration of the jazz idiom. The album's title track, "Once Upon a Time in Argentina," along with others like "Gauchos" and "Vidala," infuse traditional Argentinian influences into the jazz framework, creating a unique and engaging listening experience.
Haslam's virtuosity shines through in every note, whether he's playing the tarogato or the baritone saxophone. The interplay between the instruments is seamless, with each musician bringing their unique style to the ensemble. The album is a celebration of jazz, blending improvisation with structured compositions, and showcasing the depth and breadth of George Haslam's musical prowess.
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