Shangri-La

Andy LaVerne's "Shangri-La," released on June 7, 2019, under the SteepleChase label, is a captivating journey into the world of jazz, blending the free and hard bop traditions with a contemporary edge. This album features a stellar quintet, including the renowned Jerry Bergonzi on tenor saxophone, Alex Sipiagin on trumpet, Mike Richmond on bass, and Jason Tiemann on drums, alongside LaVerne's masterful piano playing. The tracklist, comprising nine dynamic pieces such as "Noteification," "Give and Take," and the title track "Shangri-La," showcases the ensemble's exceptional chemistry and virtuosity. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 4 minutes, "Shangri-La" is a testament to Andy LaVerne's enduring influence in the jazz scene, offering listeners a rich tapestry of improvisational brilliance and harmonic depth. This album is a must-experience for any jazz enthusiast, highlighting the timeless appeal of the genre while pushing its boundaries.