The Trumpet Kings At Montreux 1975

Experience the electrifying energy of a legendary jazz summit with "The Trumpet Kings At Montreux 1975" by Roy Eldridge. This live album captures the iconic Roy Eldridge, alongside fellow trumpet titans Dizzy Gillespie and Clark Terry, during their historic performance at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1975. Recorded live, this album is a testament to the raw power and virtuosity of these jazz greats, showcasing their unparalleled skill and chemistry on stage.

The album opens with the swinging "Montreux Blues," setting the tone for an evening of exhilarating jazz. Eldridge's signature style, characterized by his rapid-fire technique and expressive phrasing, is on full display throughout the record. From the tender ballad "There Is No Greater Love" to the up-tempo "On The Alamo," each track offers a unique perspective on the artists' individual talents and their collective mastery of the genre.

Featuring a stellar lineup of supporting musicians, including the legendary Herb Ellis on guitar and a rotating cast of piano greats like Tommy Flanagan, Oscar Peterson, and Lou Levy, the album is a who's who of jazz royalty. The interplay between Eldridge, Gillespie, and Terry is a highlight, as they trade solos and engage in playful musical conversations that only legends can have.

Recorded in 1975 and released in 1990 by Original Jazz Classics, this album is a time capsule of a bygone era, preserving the spirit of jazz in its purest form. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "The Trumpet Kings At Montreux 1975" is an essential addition to any music collection, offering over an hour of pure, unadulterated jazz brilliance.

Roy Eldridge, affectionately known as "Little Jazz," was a pioneering American jazz trumpeter whose innovative style bridged the gap between the swing era and the birth of bebop. Born in Pittsburgh, Eldridge's sophisticated harmonic approach and virtuosic solos set him apart from his contemporaries, notably departing from the dominant style of Louis Armstrong. His fiery tone, brilliant upper register, and inventive phrasing made him one of the most influential musicians of the swing era. Eldridge's impact on Dizzy Gillespie is particularly notable, solidifying his status as a precursor to bebop. Despite facing racial prejudice, Eldridge's talent shone through, earning him a place among the most important jazz trumpeters of his time. His discography is a testament to his enduring legacy, offering a rich tapestry of swing music, jazz, and bebop that continues to inspire and captivate audiences.