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"Xanadu in Africa" is a captivating jazz album recorded live at Club Taski in Dakar, Senegal, on March 14, 1980. This collaborative effort features the legendary saxophonist Al Cohn alongside Billy Mitchell on tenor sax, Dolo Coker on piano, Leroy Vinnegar on bass, and Frank Butler on drums. The album is a testament to the rich, improvisational spirit of jazz, blending cool jazz, hard bop, and bebop elements into a seamless and dynamic performance.
The album spans five tracks, including renditions of standards like "All or Nothing at All" and "Easy Living," as well as original compositions that showcase the band's virtuosity and chemistry. Recorded as part of a U.S. State Department-coordinated tour of West Africa, "Xanadu in Africa" captures the essence of a unique cultural exchange, blending American jazz traditions with the vibrant atmosphere of Senegal.
With a runtime of 47 minutes, the album offers a concise yet powerful journey through various jazz styles, highlighting the exceptional talents of each musician. The interplay between Cohn and Mitchell's saxophones, Coker's intricate piano work, Vinnegar's solid bass lines, and Butler's dynamic drumming creates a rich tapestry of sound that is both sophisticated and accessible. This album is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and anyone appreciating the artistry of live performance.