Nils Landgren's "The First Unit," released on January 1, 1992, under the ACT Music label, is a captivating blend of smooth jazz, Christmas, and traditional jazz, all wrapped up in a 46-minute journey. This album, though initially released with little fanfare, quickly became a word-of-mouth sensation, selling nearly 20,000 copies and solidifying Landgren's status as a formidable force in the jazz world.
"The First Unit" features a diverse tracklist that includes "Traci," "Cheyenne," "Eyes Of Love," and "Red Horn," among others. The album showcases Landgren's signature trombone skills and vocals, with notable contributions from musicians like Lars Danielsson on bass and cello. The recording of "Red Horn" marked the first performances and recordings of the Nils Landgren Unit, mixed by a legendary sound engineer, adding a touch of authenticity and quality to the album.
Known as "The Man with the Red Horn" for his distinctive red trombone, Nils Landgren brings his unique style and energy to each track. The album's genres span smooth jazz, Christmas, and traditional jazz, offering a rich and varied listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of Nils Landgren or new to his music, "The First Unit" is an excellent introduction to his artistry and a delightful addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.