The Opening Round

Album Description

Dive into the rich, soulful sounds of Houston Person's "The Opening Round," a captivating journey through jazz and soul classics, released in 1997. This album, part of The Groove Masters Series Vol. 1, showcases Person's masterful saxophone skills alongside a stellar ensemble of musicians, including Bernard Purdie on drums, Joey DeFrancesco on organ, and Rodney Jones on guitar, who also contributes a couple of original tracks. The album opens with the infectious "Sweet Sucker" and continues with timeless covers like "Let's Stay Together" and "What's Going On?," each track infused with a unique blend of jazz, soul, and hard bop. Person's rendition of "When a Man Loves A Woman" is particularly noteworthy, highlighting his ability to breathe new life into beloved standards. With a running time of 55 minutes, "The Opening Round" is a testament to Person's artistry and his ability to create music that resonates with both jazz aficionados and casual listeners alike. The album's warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect addition to any music collection, offering a delightful mix of familiar tunes and hidden gems.

May 27, 1997

1997 Savant Records, Inc.

About Houston Person

Houston Person is a renowned American jazz tenor saxophonist and record producer, celebrated for his rich, bluesy sound and emotive playing style. Born in Florence, South Carolina, in 1934, Person has been a staple in the jazz world for over six decades, with a discography spanning more than seventy-five albums as a bandleader. His music primarily falls within the soul jazz genre, though he has also made significant contributions to hard bop and swing. Person's career highlights include his long-standing collaboration with vocalist Etta Jones and his receipt of the prestigious Eubie Blake Jazz Award in 1982. His repertoire, which includes blues, ballads, and jazz standards, has earned him a dedicated following and kept him in steady demand. Whether performing with his own ensemble or as a featured artist, Houston Person's music is a testament to his enduring talent and passion for jazz.