Up Jumped Benny

Album Description

Dive into the rich, swinging world of jazz with Benny Golson's "Up Jumped Benny," a captivating live album that showcases the legendary saxophonist's mastery of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz. Recorded in 1996 and released by Arkadia Records in 2021, this album is a testament to Golson's enduring talent and his significant contributions to the jazz genre.

The album features a stellar lineup, with Benny Golson on tenor sax, Kevin Hays on piano, Dwayne Burno on bass, and Carl Allen on drums. Together, they deliver a dynamic and engaging performance that spans over an hour and eleven minutes, with nine tracks that highlight Golson's compositional prowess and improvisational skills.

"Up Jumped Benny" opens with the lively "Up Jumped Spring," a classic Golson tune that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Other standout tracks include the iconic "Stablemates," the introspective "I Remember Clifford," and the sultry "Whisper Not." The album also features two talk intros, offering a glimpse into Golson's wit and charm.

Throughout the album, Golson's tenor sax soars, weaving intricate melodies and powerful solos that showcase his unique style and deep understanding of jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan of Benny Golson or a newcomer to his music, "Up Jumped Benny" is an excellent addition to any jazz collection. The album was released on 27 August 2021.

August 27, 2021

2021 Arkadia Records

2020 Arkadia Records

About Benny Golson

Benny Golson, born in Philadelphia in 1929, was a titan of the jazz world, renowned for his mastery of the tenor saxophone and his prolific compositions. His career spanned over six decades, during which he became a pivotal figure in the bebop and hard bop genres. Golson first gained recognition through his work with legendary big bands led by Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie, where his talents as a composer and arranger shone brightly. In 1959, he co-founded The Jazztet with trumpeter Art Farmer, a group that became synonymous with sophisticated, hard-bop jazz. Throughout his career, Golson's distinctive sound and innovative arrangements earned him the title of a 1996 NEA Jazz Master. Beyond his performing career, Golson's arrangements for film and television in the late 1960s and 1970s showcased his versatility and creativity. His legacy endures through his timeless compositions and his influence on generations of jazz musicians.