Up And Down

Booker Ervin's 'Up And Down' is a masterclass in jazz, blending the intricacies of hard bop and bebop to create a captivating 44-minute journey. Released on the CoolNote label, this album showcases Ervin's exceptional skill and artistry.

The tracklist is a testament to Ervin's versatility, with standout pieces such as 'The Book's Beat', 'Up And Down', and 'Light Blue' demonstrating his ability to craft compelling, genre-bending jazz. Other notable tracks, including 'Fugee', 'The Other Part Of Town', and 'Lonely One', further solidify Ervin's position as a leading figure in the jazz scene.

With its unique blend of hard bop and bebop, 'Up And Down' is an essential listen for fans of the genre. Despite the incorrectly stated release date of 31 December 1899, which would historically be impossible, Booker Ervin's 'Up And Down' remains a seminal work in the jazz canon, offering a rich and immersive listening experience that is sure to delight audiences.

Booker Ervin was a powerhouse tenor saxophonist whose distinctive, hard-edged tone and emotionally charged playing left an indelible mark on the jazz world. Born in Denison, Texas, Ervin initially played trombone before teaching himself the saxophone while serving in the Air Force. His unique style, characterized by a bold, passionate sound and a deep-rooted connection to the blues and gospel, set him apart in the jazz landscape. Ervin is perhaps best known for his collaborations with bassist Charles Mingus, but his own albums, such as "The Freedom Book" and "The Book Cooks," showcase his innovative approach to hard bop and avant-garde jazz. Despite his career being cut short by his untimely death at the age of 39, Ervin's contributions to jazz continue to inspire and influence musicians and fans alike. His music is a testament to the power of emotional depth and the enduring legacy of the blues in jazz.