Dive into the rich tapestry of jazz history with Gene Ammons' "The Ultimate Jazz Archive," a meticulously curated collection of his timeless works. This audiophile edition, released on March 17, 2025, under Phonogram Recordings Ltd., spans a variety of jazz subgenres including hard bop, soul jazz, bebop, acid jazz, and cool jazz. With a runtime of just over an hour, the album features 20 tracks, each remastered to audiophile standards, offering a crisp and immersive listening experience.
Gene Ammons, a stalwart in the jazz world, brings his signature tenorsaxophone sound to tracks like "Wild Leo," "Leaping Leo," and "You Go To My Head." Accompanied by stellar musicians such as Art Davis, Art Taylor, Walter Bishop, Ray Baretto, and Patti Brown, Ammons delivers performances that are as fresh and vibrant today as they were when first recorded. The album draws from his influential LPs "Groove Blues," "The Big Sound," and "Blue Gene," recorded in 1958, showcasing his mastery of hard bop and soul jazz.
"The Ultimate Jazz Archive" is not just a compilation but a celebration of Gene Ammons' enduring legacy. Each track, from the soulful "Goodbye" to the upbeat "Good Time Blues," highlights his versatility and innovation. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a comprehensive journey through the works of one of jazz's most iconic figures.