The Vinyl Masters: Gettin' Together

Album Description

Dive into the rich, soulful sounds of "The Vinyl Masters: Gettin' Together," a captivating album by the legendary tenor saxophonist Paul Gonsalves. Originally released in 1961 and reissued in 2016, this album showcases Gonsalves' exceptional talent and his ability to blend various jazz styles seamlessly. The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Wynton Kelly on piano, Sam Jones on bass, and Jimmy Cobb on drums, with the added brilliance of Nat Adderley on cornet in five of the tracks.

Recorded in New York City in December 1960, "The Vinyl Masters: Gettin' Together" is a testament to Gonsalves' prowess as a leader and his capability to play with younger "modernists," as noted by AllMusic's Scott Yanow. The album's eight tracks span a variety of jazz genres, from cool jazz and bebop to hard bop, offering a diverse and engaging listening experience. Highlights include the upbeat "J. and B. Blues" and "Hard Groove," the soulful "I Surrender Dear," and the introspective "I Cover The Waterfront."

Gonsalves, best known for his work with Duke Ellington, particularly his iconic solo on "Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue," shines brightly in this intimate setting. The album's 39-minute runtime is filled with Gonsalves' signature tone and the exceptional interplay between the band members, making it a standout in his discography. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or new to the genre, "The Vinyl Masters: Gettin' Together" is an album that deserves a place in your collection.

1 jul 2016

2016 ZYX Music GmbH & Co. KG

About Paul Gonsalves

Paul Gonsalves, born in Brockton, Massachusetts, in 1920, was a tenor saxophonist whose name is synonymous with some of the most electrifying moments in jazz history. Gonsalves is best known for his tenure with Duke Ellington, where he delivered a legendary 27-chorus solo during the 1956 Newport Jazz Festival, a performance that revitalized Ellington's career and solidified Gonsalves' status as a jazz icon. His emotive and high-energy playing style, honed through his experiences with bands led by Count Basie and Dizzy Gillespie, made him a standout soloist and a favorite of Ellington's. Gonsalves' contributions to Ellington's suites and his prolific recordings as a soloist and bandleader showcase his versatility and influence across jazz genres, from cool jazz to hard bop. His personal style on the tenor saxophone is instantly recognizable, making him a beloved figure in the jazz world.