Seven, Come Eleven

Album Description

"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.

28 februari 1974

℗ 1974 Concord Jazz, Distributed by Concord.

About Herb Ellis

Herb Ellis, born Mitchell Herbert Ellis, was a pioneering American jazz guitarist whose career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Hailing from Farmersville, Texas, Ellis was first captivated by the guitar after hearing the Light Crust Doughboys on the radio. His journey took him from the farmlands of Texas to the vibrant jazz scenes of the world, where he became renowned for his distinctive style and virtuosic playing.

Ellis is perhaps best known for his tenure with the Oscar Peterson Trio during the 1950s, where he formed a dynamic partnership with pianist Oscar Peterson and bassist Ray Brown. Their collaborations are celebrated for their swing and musical chemistry, earning them a reputation as one of the most formidable jazz ensembles of the era. Ellis's playing was characterized by a blend of blues and bebop influences, creating a sound that was both sophisticated and deeply rooted in American musical traditions.

Throughout his career, Ellis collaborated with some of the greatest names in jazz, including Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, and Coleman Hawkins. His contributions to the genre are vast, encompassing numerous recordings and performances that showcase his mastery of the electric guitar. Ellis's legacy endures as a testament to his innovative spirit and enduring influence on the world of jazz.