Up Jumped Benny

Album Description

"Up Jumped Benny" is a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of jazz, delivered by the legendary Benny Golson. Released on August 27, 2021, via Arkadia Records, this album is a testament to Golson's enduring legacy in the world of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz. With a career spanning over six decades, Golson's mastery of the saxophone is evident in every note of this album.

The album features a stellar lineup of tracks, including the title track "Up Jumped Spring," the nostalgic "For Old Time Sake," and the poignant "I Remember Clifford," a tribute to the late trumpeter Clifford Brown. The album also includes spoken word interludes, adding a unique dimension to the listening experience.

Golson's collaboration with other jazz greats is a highlight of his career. He co-founded the Jazztet with Art Farmer and worked with the likes of Art Blakey and McCoy Tyner, influences that resonate throughout "Up Jumped Benny." The album's excellent sound quality and wide, deep sound stage have been praised by critics and fans alike, making it a standout in Golson's discography.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes, "Up Jumped Benny" is a comprehensive exploration of Golson's artistry. Whether you're a longtime fan of Benny Golson or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

27 augustus 2021

2021 Arkadia Records

2020 Arkadia Records

About Benny Golson

Benny Golson, the legendary American jazz tenor saxophonist, composer, and arranger, left an indelible mark on the music world with his distinctive style and timeless compositions. Born in Philadelphia in 1929, Golson's career spanned over six decades, during which he became renowned for his work with big bands led by Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie. His compositions, such as "Whisper Not," "Blues March," "Killer Joe," and "Along Came Betty," are celebrated for their harmonic complexity and melodic elegance, making him one of the few jazz instrumentalists more celebrated for his compositions than his performances.

Golson co-founded and co-led The Jazztet with trumpeter Art Farmer in 1959, a group that showcased his talents as both a performer and an arranger. Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, he was highly sought after for his arranging skills in film and television, which temporarily shifted his focus away from performing. However, Golson and Farmer reunited The Jazztet in 1982, continuing to captivate audiences with their unique blend of hard bop and cool jazz. Golson's contributions to jazz are a testament to his enduring legacy, making him a beloved figure in the genre.