Recorded in 1960, "Smack Up" by Art Pepper Quintet is a classic jazz album that has stood the test of time. This reissue, released on June 19, 2020, by AVID Jazz, offers a digitally remastered version of the original recordings, ensuring that the sound quality is as crisp and clear as the day it was first recorded. The album is a blend of cool jazz, bebop, and hard bop, showcasing Art Pepper's exceptional talent on the alto saxophone.
The quintet features a stellar lineup including Jack Sheldon on trumpet, Pete Jolly on piano, Jimmy Bond on bass, and Frank Butler on drums. Together, they deliver six captivating tracks that mingle accessible swing with intricate melodies. The album opens with the title track "Smack Up," followed by "Las Cuevas De Mario," "A Bit of Basie," "How Can You Lose," "Maybe Next Year," and "Tears Inside." Each track is a testament to the band's chemistry and Pepper's emotive playing.
"Smack Up" is not just an album; it's a journey through the vibrant jazz scene of the early 1960s. The performances are dynamic and full of energy, with Pepper's alto saxophone taking center stage. The album's sound quality is exceptional, mastered at Sheffield Lab Matrix, ensuring that every note is heard in its full glory. Whether you're a longtime fan of Art Pepper or a newcomer to his music, "Smack Up" is a must-listen that highlights the best of cool jazz and hard bop.
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