Charles Lloyd's "Hyperion With Higgins" is a vibrant and joyous tribute to his lifelong friend and drummer Billy Higgins, recorded in December 1999 alongside the sessions for "The Water Is Wide." This album, released on ECM Records in 2001, is a testament to Lloyd's enduring influence in the world of jazz, blending post-bop and contemporary jazz styles with his signature emotive and exploratory approach.
Featuring a stellar lineup including Brad Mehldau on piano, John Abercrombie on guitar, Larry Grenadier on double-bass, and the late Billy Higgins on drums, the album is a rich tapestry of improvisational brilliance and musical chemistry. Tracks like "Dancing Waters," "Big Sur To Bahia (For Gilberto and Caetano)," and the expansive "Darkness On The Delta Suite" showcase Lloyd's tenor saxophone and taragato playing, as well as the band's collective virtuosity.
With a duration of over an hour and ten minutes, "Hyperion With Higgins" offers a deep dive into the collaborative spirit and inventive spirit of Charles Lloyd and his bandmates. The album is a celebration of friendship, music, and the enduring legacy of Billy Higgins, making it a compelling addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.
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