Sitting In

Album Description

"Sitting In" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary saxophonist Paul Gonsalves, released on September 2, 2014, via Silk City Records. This collection of 15 tracks offers a rich tapestry of jazz styles, spanning cool jazz, bebop, and hard bop, all within a concise 53-minute duration. The album features a blend of original compositions and classic standards, showcasing Gonsalves' virtuosity and musical versatility.

From the sultry "Lady in Red" to the upbeat "Original Afro Cuban," and the tender ballad "Tenderly," each track is a testament to Gonsalves' expressive playing and his deep understanding of the jazz idiom. The album also includes notable performances of "Stella By Starlight" and "Autumn in New York," demonstrating Gonsalves' ability to breathe new life into familiar tunes.

Gonsalves, known for his extended solo in Duke Ellington's "Crescendo in Blue," brings the same intensity and passion to "Sitting In." The album is a celebration of his artistry, offering both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and newcomers a chance to appreciate his unique voice on the saxophone. Whether you're a fan of cool jazz or hard bop, "Sitting In" is sure to delight and inspire.

2 september 2014

2014 Silk City Records

2014 Silk City Records, LLC

About Paul Gonsalves

Paul Gonsalves, born in Brockton, Massachusetts, in 1920, was a tenor saxophonist whose name is synonymous with some of the most electrifying moments in jazz history. Gonsalves is best known for his tenure with Duke Ellington, where he delivered a legendary 27-chorus solo during the 1956 Newport Jazz Festival, a performance that revitalized Ellington's career and solidified Gonsalves' status as a jazz icon. His emotive and high-energy playing style, honed through his experiences with bands led by Count Basie and Dizzy Gillespie, made him a standout soloist and a favorite of Ellington's. Gonsalves' contributions to Ellington's suites and his prolific recordings as a soloist and bandleader showcase his versatility and influence across jazz genres, from cool jazz to hard bop. His personal style on the tenor saxophone is instantly recognizable, making him a beloved figure in the jazz world.