Soft Shoe

Album Description

Dive into the rich, swinging sounds of Art Farmer's "Soft Shoe," a masterfully remastered collection that showcases the legendary trumpeter's prowess in the hard bop and cool jazz genres. Released in 2015, this album is a testament to Farmer's enduring legacy, featuring a stellar lineup of tracks that highlight his distinctive style and virtuosic playing.

"Soft Shoe" brings together a mix of original compositions and reinterpretations, each track meticulously remastered to bring out the finest details of Farmer's performance. The album kicks off with the title track, "Soft Shoe," a lively number that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Fans of bebop will appreciate the intricate melodies and rapid-fire improvisations that characterize many of the tracks, while those who enjoy a smoother, cooler sound will find plenty to love in the more laid-back pieces.

The album features collaborations with some of the most respected names in jazz, including Sonny Rollins, Horace Silver, and Wynton Kelly, adding depth and richness to the overall sound. Tracks like "Confab in Tempo" and "Wisteria" showcase Farmer's ability to navigate complex compositions with ease, while slower numbers like "I'll Walk Alone" and "By Myself" highlight his sensitivity and lyrical playing.

With a running time of over an hour and forty minutes, "Soft Shoe" offers a substantial listening experience that is sure to delight jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. Whether you're a longtime fan of Art Farmer or new to his music, this remastered collection is a fantastic introduction to his unique sound and enduring influence on the jazz world.

May 7, 2015

The Fabulous Recordings Remastered

About Art Farmer

Art Farmer, born in 1928, was a pioneering American jazz trumpeter and flugelhorn player who left an indelible mark on the genre. Alongside his identical twin brother, bassist Addison Farmer, Art began his professional journey in Los Angeles, gaining significant attention with his composition "Farmer's Market" in 1952. His move to New York City solidified his reputation as a bebop virtuoso, collaborating with jazz legends like Horace Silver, Sonny Rollins, and Gigi Gryce. Farmer's discography is a testament to his versatility and innovation, spanning genres from hard bop to cool jazz. He was known for his lyrical and inventive playing style, and his dedication to his craft was evident in every performance. Farmer's unique sound was further enhanced by his use of the flumpet, a custom instrument designed specifically for him. Throughout his career, Art Farmer's music continued to evolve, reflecting his commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to appreciate.