Swingchronicity

"Swingchronicity" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Phil Woods, released in 2007 under the Jazzed Media label. This album is a testament to Woods' virtuosity and his ability to blend various jazz styles, including hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz, into a cohesive and engaging musical experience.

Collaborating with the DePaul University Jazz Ensemble, Woods delivers a dynamic performance that showcases his exceptional talent as a soloist on the first seven tracks. The album opens with the buoyant "I'm Getting Sentimental Over You," setting the tone for a lively and spirited journey through a collection of jazz standards and original compositions.

Each track on "Swingchronicity" offers a unique flavor, from the sweet and swinging "Stockholm Sweetnin'" to the introspective "Never Let Me Go." Woods' masterful playing is complemented by the energetic and skilled performances of the DePaul University Jazz Ensemble, creating a harmonious blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned expertise.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes, "Swingchronicity" is a rich and immersive listening experience that highlights the timeless appeal of jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan of Phil Woods or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.

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.