Jazz Sur Seine is a captivating album by the talented Barney Wilen, recorded in Paris in February 1958. This album is a testament to Wilen's prowess on the tenor saxophone, as he collaborates with jazz legends Milt Jackson on piano, Percy Heath on bass, Kenny Clarke on drums, and Gana M'Bow on percussion. The album is a blend of French jazz, free jazz, hard bop, and traditional jazz, showcasing the versatility and innovation of the young Wilen, who was not yet 21 years old at the time of recording.
The album features 12 instrumental tracks, including well-known jazz standards like "Nuages" and "Minor Swing," as well as original compositions like "Swing 39" and "John's Groove." Each track is a masterclass in jazz improvisation and composition, with Wilen's distinctive saxophone playing taking center stage. The rhythm section, comprising Jackson, Heath, and Clarke, provides a solid foundation for Wilen's solos, while M'Bow's percussion adds a unique texture to the sound.
Jazz Sur Seine was originally released on Philips LP in 1958 and has since been reissued and remastered multiple times, including a recent remastering from the original mono master tapes. The album's enduring appeal lies in its timeless jazz sound, which continues to captivate audiences more than six decades after its initial release. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Jazz Sur Seine is an essential addition to any music collection.
Barney Wilen, born in Nice in 1937, was a prodigious French jazz saxophonist and composer who made an indelible mark on the genre. As a teenager, he began playing with jazz legends like Art Blakey and Miles Davis, showcasing his remarkable talent at an early age. Wilen is perhaps best remembered for his collaboration with Miles Davis on the iconic soundtrack to Louis Malle's 1958 film "Lift to the Scaffold," a masterpiece that highlighted his distinctive tenor and soprano saxophone skills. Throughout his career, Wilen explored various styles, including hard bop and free jazz, and even ventured into composing musical interpretations of the zodiac signs. His contributions to French jazz are enduring, making him a pivotal figure in the genre's rich history.
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