New Celebration

"New Celebration" is a vibrant and swinging jazz album by the legendary Phil Woods, released in 2013 under Chiaroscuro Records. This album is a testament to Woods' enduring talent and his ability to blend various jazz genres seamlessly, including hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz. Recorded between April and June 2013 at Red Rock Recording, the album features Woods alongside the Festival Orchestra, a group that has been a staple in his musical journey since 1992.

The album opens with "Bop'n Bob Don't Stop," setting the tone for a high-energy journey through ten meticulously crafted tracks. Each song showcases Woods' virtuosity on the alto saxophone, accompanied by the rich, dynamic sound of the Festival Orchestra. From the upbeat rhythms of "Hank Jones" and "Get Bird's Word" to the soulful ballad "Ballad for Hank," the album offers a diverse range of musical experiences. The inclusion of standards like "You Don't Know What Love Is" adds a touch of familiarity, while original compositions like "Shiny Pants" and "Here's to Alvy" highlight Woods' compositional prowess.

"New Celebration" is not just a reunion date for Woods and his ensemble but a celebration of jazz itself. The crisp, lively performances and the chemistry between the musicians make this album a standout in Woods' discography. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this album is a delightful exploration of Phil Woods' artistry and the timeless appeal of jazz.

Phil Woods, born in Springfield, Massachusetts, was a titan of the alto saxophone, renowned for his bright, clean sound and sterling technique. A disciple of Charlie Parker, Woods developed his own signature voice in the mid-'50s and remained a formidable force in jazz for over six decades. He collaborated with legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Quincy Jones, and Benny Goodman, and his solos graced hit records by Paul Simon and Billy Joel. Woods was not just a virtuoso saxophonist but also a prolific composer and bandleader, with over 200 songs to his credit, including "The Sun Suite" and "American Songbook." His charismatic storytelling and insightful observations made him a beloved figure in jazz circles. Woods received the NEA Jazz Masters fellowship in 2007, cementing his legacy as one of the true masters of the bop vocabulary. His passing in 2015 marked the end of an era, but his music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.