Paul Chambers: Awful Mean

Dive into the rich, swinging sounds of the jazz world with Paul Chambers' "Awful Mean," a captivating collection released in 2013 under the 24 Blue Music label. This album is a testament to Chambers' mastery of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz, offering a seamless blend of classic and contemporary styles that will captivate any jazz enthusiast.

"Awful Mean" features a stellar lineup of tracks that showcase Chambers' virtuosity and his deep understanding of the jazz idiom. From the title track "Awful Mean" to the timeless classic "I Got Rhythm," each song is a masterclass in jazz composition and performance. The album also includes standout tracks like "Dear Ann," "Just Friends," and "Shades of Blue," each offering a unique perspective on the jazz tradition.

With a duration of 58 minutes, this album is perfect for a leisurely listen or a deep dive into the intricacies of jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "Awful Mean" offers something for everyone. The album's diverse tracklist ensures that there's always something new to discover, making it a valuable addition to any music collection. So, sit back, relax, and let the smooth, sophisticated sounds of Paul Chambers transport you to a world of pure musical bliss.

Paul Chambers, born Paul Laurence Dunbar Chambers Jr., was a titan of the jazz double bass, renowned for his pivotal role in the hard bop era of the 1950s and 1960s. His distinctive style and impeccable timekeeping made him a sought-after sideman, anchoring legendary groups like Miles Davis's "first great quintet" and collaborating with jazz giants such as John Coltrane and Wynton Kelly. Chambers' discography is vast, with over a hundred recordings as a sideman and a dozen as a leader or co-leader, showcasing his mastery of both pizzicato and bowed solos. Despite his tragically short life, Chambers left an indelible mark on jazz, known for his warm personality and humility off-stage, and his groundbreaking contributions on-stage. His iconic bass lines on tracks like "So What" and "Giant Steps" continue to inspire musicians and captivate audiences worldwide.