Walkin'

Benny Golson, a legendary figure in the world of jazz, presents "Walkin'," a captivating album released on January 1, 2018, under Reborn Recordings. This album is a testament to Golson's mastery of various jazz genres, including hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz. Clocking in at just under 38 minutes, "Walkin'" is a concise yet powerful collection of ten tracks that showcase Golson's virtuosic tenor saxophone playing and his knack for crafting memorable melodies.

The album opens with "Moten's Swing," a high-energy track that sets the tone for the rest of the record. "Out of Nowhere" and "Groovin' High" follow, offering a blend of classic jazz standards and original compositions. "Autumn Leaves" provides a moment of respite, showcasing Golson's ability to convey deep emotion through his playing. The album also features "Donna Lee," a bebop classic, and "Ornithology," another jazz standard that Golson reinterprets with his unique style.

"Walkin'" is not just a showcase for Golson's saxophone skills. The album features an impressive lineup of musicians, including Bill Evans on piano, Freddie Hubbard on trumpet, and Ron Carter on bass. The result is a rich, textured sound that highlights the interplay between the instruments. The title track, "Walkin'," is a standout, featuring a driving rhythm and a memorable melody that will stay with you long after the album ends.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Benny Golson or a newcomer to his music, "Walkin'" is an album that demands your attention. It's a celebration of jazz in all its forms, and a testament to the enduring power of this great American art form. So, put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and let Benny Golson and his band take you on a journey through the world of jazz.

Benny Golson, born in Philadelphia in 1929, was a titan of the jazz world, renowned for his mastery of the tenor saxophone and his prolific compositions. His career spanned over six decades, during which he became a pivotal figure in the bebop and hard bop genres. Golson first gained recognition through his work with legendary big bands led by Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie, where his talents as a composer and arranger shone brightly. In 1959, he co-founded The Jazztet with trumpeter Art Farmer, a group that became synonymous with sophisticated, hard-bop jazz. Throughout his career, Golson's distinctive sound and innovative arrangements earned him the title of a 1996 NEA Jazz Master. Beyond his performing career, Golson's arrangements for film and television in the late 1960s and 1970s showcased his versatility and creativity. His legacy endures through his timeless compositions and his influence on generations of jazz musicians.

Walkin'

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