Dive into the soulful and smoky world of Willis Jackson with "Moodsville Volume 17: Solitude," a captivating journey through the realms of soul jazz, acid jazz, and hard bop. Originally recorded in 1961 and reissued in 2014, this album is a testament to Jackson's mastery of the tenor saxophone and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his music.
The album opens with the tender "Estrellita," setting the stage for a collection of tracks that range from the upbeat "Home" and "Nancy (with the Laughing Face)" to the poignant "Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen" and "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child." Jackson's soulful renditions of these classics are complemented by his original compositions, such as "It Never Entered My Mind" and the title track "Solitude," which showcase his unique voice and innovative spirit.
With a runtime of just over 35 minutes, "Moodsville Volume 17: Solitude" is a concise yet powerful exploration of the human condition, capturing moments of joy, longing, and introspection. The album's production quality is top-notch, with crisp audio that allows Jackson's saxophone to shine. Whether you're a long-time fan of Willis Jackson or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.