"Legends Of Acid Jazz" by Houston Person is a soulful journey through the rich tapestry of jazz, soul jazz, and hard bop, released in 1996 under the Prestige label. This album is a testament to Houston Person's mastery of the saxophone, offering a collection of 13 tracks that span a total of 78 minutes of pure musical bliss. From the opening notes of "Son Of Man" to the powerful closing track "Lift Every Voice And Sing," Person's gutbucket style shines through, showcasing his ability to infuse each piece with raw emotion and technical prowess.
The album features a mix of original compositions and well-known covers, including "Young, Gifted And Black" and "Give More Power To The People (For God's Sake)." Each track is a showcase of Person's versatility, whether he's delivering a tender ballad like "Close To You" or a high-energy performance like "The Houston Express." The album also includes a rendition of "Chains Of Love," demonstrating Person's ability to breathe new life into classic tunes.
"Legends Of Acid Jazz" is not just an album; it's a celebration of Houston Person's contributions to the jazz world. His playing is characterized by a deep, resonant tone and a rhythmic drive that makes each track irresistible. Whether you're a longtime fan of soul jazz or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the work of one of the most distinctive voices in modern jazz.