The Oscar Pettiford Memorial Concert

Album Description

Dive into the rich history of jazz with "The Oscar Pettiford Memorial Concert" by Stan Getz, a timeless collection of performances that pay tribute to the legendary bassist Oscar Pettiford. Released on April 22, 2024, this album is a testament to the enduring legacy of Pettiford and the stellar lineup of musicians who gathered to honor his memory. Featuring a blend of bossa nova, jazz, Brazilian jazz, cool jazz, and Latin jazz, this album is a treasure trove for any jazz enthusiast.

The concert, organized by a circle of Danish jazz fans just weeks after Pettiford's passing, features a star-studded lineup that includes Stan Getz, Alice Babs, and Erik Moseholm, among others. The album spans 15 tracks and over an hour and fifteen minutes of pure jazz brilliance, with each performance showcasing the unique talents of the artists involved. From the sultry "Bohemia After Dark" to the upbeat "Get Happy," every song is a masterclass in jazz composition and performance.

Highlights include Getz's renditions of "Without A Song" and "Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most," where his tenor sax soars above the accompaniment, creating a rich tapestry of sound. The album also features collaborations with other notable musicians, such as the Erik Moseholm Trio and the Bengt Hallberg Trio, adding depth and variety to the collection.

"The Oscar Pettiford Memorial Concert" is not just an album; it's a historical document that captures a moment in time when the jazz community came together to celebrate the life and work of one of its greatest figures. Whether you're a longtime fan of Stan Getz or a newcomer to the world of jazz, this album offers a captivating journey through some of the genre's most beloved tunes, performed by some of its most revered artists.

22 apr 2024

(P) 2024 SteepleChase Productions ApS

About Stan Getz

Stan Getz, the legendary American jazz saxophonist, is renowned for his warm, lyrical tone that earned him the nickname "The Sound." Born in Philadelphia, Getz began his professional career at just 15 years old, quickly making a name for himself in the late 1940s with Woody Herman's big band. His mastery of the tenor saxophone, influenced by the likes of Lester Young, made him a standout figure in both bebop and cool jazz scenes.

Getz's career took a significant turn when he was introduced to the enchanting sounds of bossa nova. Collaborating with Brazilian musicians like João Gilberto and Antônio Carlos Jobim, he played a pivotal role in popularizing this genre in the United States. His 1964 hit single "The Girl from Ipanema" remains a timeless classic, showcasing his ability to blend jazz with Latin rhythms seamlessly.

Throughout his career, Getz performed extensively in Europe, where he was celebrated for his artistry and the gracious manner in which he engaged with audiences. His discography is a testament to his versatility, spanning genres from cool jazz to Brazilian jazz, and his collaborations with other jazz greats have left an indelible mark on the music world. Whether performing in intimate jazz clubs or larger venues, Stan Getz's performances were always a captivating experience, filled with his signature smooth and mellow saxophone playing.