Dive into the rich, soulful sounds of Houston Person's "The Opening Round," a captivating journey through jazz and soul classics, released in 1997. This album, part of The Groove Masters Series Vol. 1, showcases Person's masterful saxophone skills alongside a stellar ensemble of musicians, including Bernard Purdie on drums, Joey DeFrancesco on organ, and Rodney Jones on guitar, who also contributes a couple of original tracks. The album opens with the infectious "Sweet Sucker" and continues with timeless covers like "Let's Stay Together" and "What's Going On?," each track infused with a unique blend of jazz, soul, and hard bop. Person's rendition of "When a Man Loves A Woman" is particularly noteworthy, highlighting his ability to breathe new life into beloved standards. With a running time of 55 minutes, "The Opening Round" is a testament to Person's artistry and his ability to create music that resonates with both jazz aficionados and casual listeners alike. The album's warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect addition to any music collection, offering a delightful mix of familiar tunes and hidden gems.
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