7 Pieces

Album Description

Dive into the world of cool and free jazz with Jimmy Giuffre's "7 Pieces," a captivating album released in 2000 by CoolNote. This collection of seven enchanting tracks showcases Giuffre's mastery of the clarinet, tenor, and baritone sax, accompanied by the stellar talents of Jim Hall on guitar and Ralph Pena on bass. Recorded at the iconic Capitol Tower in Los Angeles in 1956, this album is a testament to Giuffre's innovative approach to jazz, blending cool and free jazz elements seamlessly.

"7 Pieces" opens with the upbeat "Happy Man," setting a lively tone that carries through to the soothing melodies of "Lovely Willow" and "Song Of The Wind." The album's title track, "The Story," is a standout piece that highlights Giuffre's compositional skills and improvisational prowess. Other notable tracks include the whimsical "Princess" and the introspective "The Little Melody," culminating in the forward-thinking "Time Machine."

With a total duration of 46 minutes, "7 Pieces" is a concise yet powerful exploration of Giuffre's unique musical vision. The album is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and anyone looking to expand their musical horizons. Jimmy Giuffre's "7 Pieces" is not just an album; it's a journey through the rich tapestry of jazz, showcasing the genius of one of the genre's most innovative musicians.

1 januari 2000

2000 CoolNote

About Jimmy Giuffre

Jimmy Giuffre was a pioneering American jazz musician, composer, and arranger whose innovative spirit continually pushed the boundaries of the genre. Born in Dallas, Texas, in 1921, Giuffre began his musical journey on the clarinet at a young age and later mastered the saxophone and guitar. He is renowned for his development of jazz forms that emphasized free interplay and improvisation, anticipating the free jazz movement.

Giuffre's career spanned over five decades, during which he explored various styles, from the cool jazz of the West Coast to the avant-garde. He is perhaps best known for his work with Woody Herman, where he co-wrote the iconic "Four Brothers" arrangement, and for leading influential trios that featured a drummerless format, allowing for unique musical dialogues.

His compositions and arrangements bridged diverse musical traditions, connecting swing, modernism, free jazz, and even folk music. Despite his groundbreaking work, Giuffre's eclectic approach sometimes led to obscurity, as he didn't fit neatly into conventional jazz categories. However, his impact on the jazz world is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and enthusiasts alike.