Dive into the rich, melodic world of Art Farmer with "Evening in Casablanca," a remastered collection of hard bop and cool jazz classics that showcase the trumpeter's mastery and versatility. Originally released in 1956 with the Art Farmer Quintet featuring Gigi Gryce, this album has been reissued with pristine sound quality, allowing both longtime fans and newcomers to appreciate the intricate compositions and flawless performances.
Spanning over an hour and forty minutes, "Evening in Casablanca" is a testament to Art Farmer's artistry, featuring 20 tracks that blend bebop energy with cool jazz sophistication. The album opens with the title track, "Evening in Casablanca," a standout piece known for its unusual structure and captivating melody. Other highlights include "Stupendous-Lee," "The Infant's Song," and "Autumn Nocturne," each offering a unique blend of harmony and rhythm that defines the cool jazz genre.
Critics have praised "Evening in Casablanca" as one of Art Farmer's finest works, with Stephen Cook of Allmusic hailing it as a set that qualifies as one of Farmer's best. The Penguin Guide to Jazz also gives it a maximum four-star rating, commending Gigi Gryce's compositions and their innovative structures.
This remastered edition, released on December 22, 2014, by Tetr Music, is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and those looking to explore the genre's golden era. With its engaging melodies, complex harmonies, and Art Farmer's signature trumpet sound, "Evening in Casablanca" is a timeless addition to any jazz collection.