Dive into the vibrant world of hard bop with Greg Abate's "Birds of a Feather," a captivating album released in 2008 on Woodville Records. This dynamic collection of eight tracks showcases Abate's mastery of the saxophone, blending his signature hard bop style with elements of bebop, resulting in an hour and ten minutes of pure jazz exhilaration.
"Birds of a Feather" features Greg Abate on alto and tenor saxophones, joined by the stellar rhythm section of pianist John Donaldson, bassist Andrew Cleyndert, and drummer Spike Wells. The album also includes special guest Alan Barnes on alto and baritone saxophones, adding depth and variety to the performances. Half of the tunes are penned by Abate himself, while the rest are composed by Barnes and jazz legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Tadd Dameron.
The album kicks off with a blazing rendition of Tadd Dameron's "Hot House," setting the stage for a high-energy journey through Abate's original compositions like "Wong's Way," "In the Stratosphere," and "The Birdfeeder." The album also includes a nod to Charlie Parker with a lively performance of "Be-bop." Each track is a testament to Abate's dynamic playing style and his deep roots in the jazz tradition.
"Birds of a Feather" is a thrilling addition to Greg Abate's discography, highlighting his growth as a saxophonist and composer. Whether you're a longtime fan of hard bop or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate with its infectious energy and virtuosic performances.
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