The Vinyl Masters: Funky

Album Description

Dive into the soulful and swinging world of Gene Ammons with "The Vinyl Masters: Funky," a timeless collection of jazz masterpieces that showcase the legendary tenor saxophonist's unparalleled talent. Released in 2016 on ZYX Music, this album is a reissue of the original 1957 recordings, capturing the essence of Ammons' distinctive style and his ability to blend various jazz genres seamlessly.

"The Vinyl Masters: Funky" features four extended tracks that highlight Ammons' dynamic playing and his knack for creating infectious grooves. The album kicks off with the title track "Funky," a blues-driven number that showcases Ammons' powerful tenor saxophone alongside the stellar contributions of Kenny Burrell on guitar, Jackie McLean on alto saxophone, and Art Farmer on trumpet. The rhythm section, featuring Doug Watkins on bass and Art Taylor on drums, provides a solid foundation for the soloists to stretch out and explore their creative boundaries.

Throughout the album, Ammons and his all-star ensemble deliver captivating performances that span a range of jazz styles, from hard bop and bebop to soul jazz and cool jazz. "Pint Size" and "King Size" are standout tracks that demonstrate the band's ability to create memorable melodies and intricate harmonies, while "Stella By Starlight" offers a more introspective and romantic side of Ammons' artistry.

Gene Ammons, known as "The Boss" and "Jug," was a pioneer in the jazz world, blending his soulful tenor saxophone playing with elements of R&B and blues. His accessible and engaging style has made him a beloved figure in the jazz community, and "The Vinyl Masters: Funky" is a testament to his enduring legacy. Whether you're a longtime fan of Gene Ammons or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. With its rich history and exceptional performances, "The Vinyl Masters: Funky" is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

22 april 2016

2016 ZYX Music GmbH & Co. KG

About Gene Ammons

Gene Ammons, affectionately known as "Jug" or "The Boss," was a titan of the tenor saxophone in the jazz world, renowned for his soulful, blues-infused sound that bridged bebop, soul jazz, and R&B. Born into a musical family in Chicago, Ammons was the son of legendary boogie-woogie pianist Albert Ammons. His career took off in the 1940s when he joined Billy Eckstine's innovative bebop big band, where he honed his fiery style alongside fellow saxophonist Dexter Gordon. Ammons' music is celebrated for its accessibility and deep emotional resonance, making him a beloved figure among jazz enthusiasts. Throughout his career, he collaborated with notable artists such as Sonny Stitt, Jack McDuff, and Nat Adderley, and recorded for prestigious labels like Prestige and Chess. Despite facing personal challenges, including incarcerations related to drug offenses, Ammons' legacy endures through his prolific discography, which includes timeless albums like "Groove Blues," "Boss Tenor," and "Blue Gene." His rich tone and melodic improvisations continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.