Blowin' Country / European Tour 1957

"Blowin' Country / European Tour 1957" is a captivating journey through the golden era of cool jazz, led by the virtuoso Bud Shank. Released in 2014 by Universe, this album is a treasure trove of 25 tracks that span over two hours, offering a rich blend of cool jazz, Brazilian jazz, and bossa nova.

Bud Shank, a renowned alto saxophonist and flutist, rose to fame in the early 1950s and his mastery shines through in this collection. The album features a mix of live tracks recorded during his European tour in 1957, showcasing his dynamic performances alongside fellow jazz legend Bob Cooper. The tracks range from lively numbers like "Sweet Georgia Brown" and "Gypsy in My Soul" to more intimate pieces such as "I'll Remember April" and "Polka Dots and Moonbeams."

The album is a testament to Shank's versatility and his significant contributions to the jazz world. It includes both popular standards and lesser-known gems, all performed with the distinctive cool jazz style that Shank and his contemporaries popularized. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bud Shank or a newcomer to the world of cool jazz, this album offers a delightful exploration of a pivotal period in jazz history.

Bud Shank, born Clifford Everett Shank Jr., was a pioneering figure in the world of jazz, renowned for his mastery of the alto saxophone and flute. Rising to prominence in the 1950s, Shank's career spanned over seven decades, making him a staple in the West Coast jazz scene. He began his journey with Stan Kenton's Innovations in Modern Music Orchestra, where his lead alto and flute skills shone brightly. Throughout the 1960s, Shank became a sought-after studio musician in Hollywood, contributing to numerous soundtracks, including the iconic "California Dreamin'" by The Mamas & The Papas, where his alto flute solo is unforgettable.

Shank's versatility extended beyond jazz, as he collaborated with artists like Laurindo Almeida and Ravi Shankar, blending American and Brazilian music to create the bossa nova genre. His discography is a testament to his eclectic tastes, encompassing cool jazz, bossa nova, and even avant-garde jazz. Shank's influence is undeniable, having worked with legends such as Charlie Barnet and Ray Brown, and his recordings continue to inspire new generations of musicians. Whether playing with the L.A. Four or recording solo albums, Bud Shank's legacy as a jazz innovator and studio maestro endures, making him a true icon of the genre.

Blowin' Country / European Tour 1957

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