"Seven, Come Eleven" is a captivating live album by the legendary jazz guitarist Herb Ellis, recorded at the Concord Summer Festival on July 29, 1973, and released on February 28, 1974. This album is a testament to Ellis's virtuosity and his deep roots in the jazz tradition, featuring a stellar lineup that includes the incomparable Joe Pass on guitar, Ray Brown on bass, and Jake Hanna on drums. The album is a blend of cool jazz, bebop, and post-bop influences, showcasing the ensemble's tight interplay and individual brilliance.
The six-track album opens with a rendition of "In A Mellow Tone," followed by the title track "Seven, Come Eleven," a standard popularized by jazz guitar pioneer Charlie Christian. Other highlights include "Prelude To A Kiss," "Perdido," and "I'm Confessin' (That I Love You)," each track demonstrating Ellis's signature style and technical prowess. The album concludes with "Easy Living" and "Concord Blues," both of which underscore the band's cohesive sound and improvisational skills.
"Seven, Come Eleven" is a live recording that captures the energy and spontaneity of a live performance, making it a valuable addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. The album's concise 41-minute runtime ensures that each note counts, delivering a powerful and engaging listening experience from start to finish. This album is a great introduction to Herb Ellis's work for those new to his music, and a delightful addition for longtime fans.