Golden Selection

Album Description

Dive into the rich, melodic world of jazz legend Benny Golson with "Golden Selection," a meticulously remastered collection that spans nearly five hours of pure musical brilliance. Released in 2021, this album is a testament to Golson's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the jazz repertoire. With 50 tracks, including timeless classics like "Stablemates," "Autumn Leaves," and "I Fall in Love Too Easily," this compilation offers a comprehensive journey through Golson's illustrious career.

Benny Golson, a true pioneer in the jazz world, is renowned for his compositions that have become standards in the genre. His unique style, blending hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz, is evident throughout this album. Each track is a masterclass in jazz composition and performance, showcasing Golson's virtuosity on the tenor saxophone and his knack for crafting unforgettable melodies.

"Golden Selection" is not just a collection of songs; it's a retrospective of Golson's historic career, starting from his early days with the Tadd Dameron band in 1953. The album features a mix of solo performances and collaborations, highlighting Golson's versatility and his ability to adapt to different musical contexts. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

The remastered sound quality brings out the nuances in Golson's playing, making it a joy to listen to for both casual listeners and jazz aficionados. The album's diverse tracklist ensures that there's something for everyone, from upbeat, energetic tracks like "Strut Time" and "Swing It" to slower, more introspective pieces like "Yesterdays" and "I Didn't Know What Time It Was."

In 2021, Benny Golson received a Trustees Award from the Recording Academy, recognizing his contributions as a composer and his impact on the jazz world. "Golden Selection" is a fitting tribute to his achievements, offering a comprehensive overview of his career and his enduring influence on the genre. So, sit back, relax, and let the timeless melodies of Benny Golson transport you to a world of jazz excellence.

June 25, 2021

2021 Master Tape Records

About Benny Golson

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.