Experience the legendary Ben Webster in a live setting with "At The Renaissance," a captivating album that captures the jazz master at the height of his powers. Recorded on October 14, 1960, at the iconic Renaissance club in Hollywood, California, this album is a testament to Webster's enduring legacy as one of the "big three" of swing tenors, alongside Coleman Hawkins and Lester Young.
"At The Renaissance" features Webster's signature tenor saxophone, accompanied by a stellar quintet including Jim Hall on guitar, Jimmy Rowles on piano, Red Mitchell on bass, and Frank Butler on drums. The album showcases Webster's distinctive style, blending breathy and growling tones with inventive phrasing, all in a cool jazz setting.
The album opens with a rendition of "Gone With The Wind," setting the tone for the evening with Webster's soulful and expressive playing. Other highlights include a tender take on "Stardust," a lively performance of "Caravan," and a heartfelt rendition of "Georgia On My Mind." The album also features original compositions like "Renaissance Blues," showcasing Webster's compositional skills.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 7 minutes, "At The Renaissance" offers a comprehensive look at a live performance by one of jazz's greatest saxophonists. The album was originally released on Contemporary Records in 1960 and has since been reissued, allowing new generations of fans to discover Webster's timeless music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ben Webster or a newcomer to his music, "At The Renaissance" is an essential addition to any jazz collection.
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