Cookin'

Booker Ervin's 'Cookin'' is a seminal jazz album that showcases the saxophonist's unique talent and style. Recorded on 26 November 1960, in Newark, New Jersey, this 43-minute album features a stellar lineup, including Richard Williams on trumpet, Horace Parlan on piano, George Tucker on bass, and Dannie Richmond on drums.

The six-track album is a masterclass in hard bop and bebop, with Ervin's soulful saxophone taking centre stage. From the opening notes of 'Dee Da Do' to the closing bars of 'Autumn Leaves', the album is a testament to Ervin's skill as a composer and performer. Other standout tracks include 'Mr. Wiggles', 'You Don't Know What Love Is', 'Down In The Dumps', and 'Well, Well', each one demonstrating Ervin's ability to craft compelling, memorable melodies.

Originally released on the Savoy label in 1961, 'Cookin'' has been widely praised by critics and fans alike. With its perfect blend of energy, sophistication, and emotional depth, this album is a must-listen for anyone who loves jazz. Booker Ervin's 'Cookin'' is a classic of the genre, and its influence can still be felt today.

Booker Ervin was a powerhouse tenor saxophonist whose distinctive, hard-edged tone and emotionally charged playing left an indelible mark on the jazz world. Born in Denison, Texas, Ervin initially played trombone before teaching himself the saxophone while serving in the Air Force. His unique style, characterized by a bold, passionate sound and a deep-rooted connection to the blues and gospel, set him apart in the jazz landscape. Ervin is perhaps best known for his collaborations with bassist Charles Mingus, but his own albums, such as "The Freedom Book" and "The Book Cooks," showcase his innovative approach to hard bop and avant-garde jazz. Despite his career being cut short by his untimely death at the age of 39, Ervin's contributions to jazz continue to inspire and influence musicians and fans alike. His music is a testament to the power of emotional depth and the enduring legacy of the blues in jazz.

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