The Master Takes

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Ruby Braff's cornet mastery with "The Master Takes," a captivating jazz album released on July 23, 2013, by ATF Media. This 44-minute journey through classic jazz standards and original compositions showcases Braff's virtuosic playing alongside an impressive ensemble of jazz luminaries, including Joe Newman, Benny Powell, Coleman Hawkins, and Woody Herman, among others.

The album opens with the enchanting "It's Wonderful" and continues with a mix of upbeat numbers like "Hustlin' and Bustlin'" and soulful ballads such as "Fine and Mellow." Each track is a testament to Braff's exceptional skill and the rich, swinging atmosphere he creates with his fellow musicians. The inclusion of "Shoe Shine Boy" and "When It's Sleepy Time Down South" adds a touch of nostalgia, while "Flaky" and "Ad Lib Blues" demonstrate the band's improvisational prowess.

Ruby Braff, known for his collaborations with the likes of Ellis Larkins and his contributions to the jazz scene, brings his signature warmth and technical brilliance to this collection. "The Master Takes" is a celebration of traditional jazz, highlighting Braff's ability to convey deep emotion and swing with every note. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this album offers a delightful exploration of one of jazz's most enduring artists.

23 juli 2013

ATF Media

About Ruby Braff

Ruby Braff, the mellifluous cornetist and jazz trumpeter, left an indelible mark on the music world with his distinctive and eloquent sound. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1927, Braff was a self-taught musician who began playing locally in the 1940s. By the mid-1950s, he had caught the attention of Down Beat Magazine, which named him "best new trumpeter" in 1955. Braff's playing was characterized by his ability to interpret well-written songs while adding his unique touch, a skill he considered crucial to his artistry. Collaborating with notable musicians like Nat Pierce and Dave McKenna, Braff's recordings from the 1950s remain some of his most celebrated work. Despite his passing in 2003, Braff's legacy endures, remembered as one of the finest jazz musicians of his generation.