You're Driving Me Crazy

Album Description

Phil Woods, the legendary jazz artist, returns with his latest album "You're Driving Me Crazy," a vibrant collection of 11 tracks that showcase his mastery of jazz, hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz. Released on March 19, 2021, under the Mentirosa label, this album is a testament to Woods' enduring talent and his ability to captivate audiences with his unique sound.

The album opens with the title track, "You're Driving Me Crazy," a lively and energetic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. From there, Woods takes us on a journey through a variety of styles and moods, from the playful "Took the Spook" and "Carioca" to the sultry "Blues in Pig Alley" and the romantic "There Will Never Be Another You." Each track is a showcase of Woods' virtuosity on the alto saxophone, as well as his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his music.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "I Got It Bad and That Ain't Good," a classic jazz standard that Woods breathes new life into with his signature style. The album also features a number of original compositions, including "Delighted" and "I've Got a Feelin' You're Foolin'," which demonstrate Woods' skill as a composer and arranger.

Throughout the album, Woods is supported by a talented group of musicians, including pianist Bill Charlap, bassist Jay Anderson, and drummer Lewis Nash. Their tight, swinging rhythms and sensitive playing provide the perfect backdrop for Woods' soaring solos and soulful melodies.

At 43 minutes, "You're Driving Me Crazy" is a concise yet satisfying listen, with each track carefully crafted to showcase Woods' artistry and musicality. Whether you're a longtime fan of Phil Woods or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to delight and inspire. So sit back, relax, and let the music of Phil Woods transport you to a world of jazz.

March 19, 2021

2021 Mentirosa

About Phil Woods

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.