Gigi Gryce and The Jazz Lab Quintet, released on April 1, 1957, is a captivating journey into the world of hard bop and bebop, showcasing the extraordinary talent of alto saxophonist Gigi Gryce. This album, recorded in New York on February 27 and March 7, 1957, is a testament to Gryce's innovative spirit and his collaboration with trumpeter Donald Byrd. The Jazz Lab Quintet's debut session is one of their finest, featuring a mix of original compositions by Gryce and other Eastern jazz musicians, with notable tracks like "Minority" and the explosive "Wake Up!" The album's six tracks, including "Love For Sale," "Geraldine," and "Straight Ahead," offer a dynamic range of styles within the jazz genre, from cool jazz to bebop. The original Riverside pressing, with its distinctive labels and coated cover, adds to the album's historical significance. This recording is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts, highlighting Gryce's contributions to the evolution of bebop and his role in shaping the sound of modern jazz.
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