A few months after moving from America. That?s the time it took a reinvigorated Ben Webster to conquer Cafe Montmarte, a Copenhagen stage, during a marathon performance in January 1965, the standout highlights from which are collected on this exhilarating release.
Backed by pianist Kenny Drew and a rhythm section comprised of young European lions, the tenor saxophonist swings and stings through originals and standards, riffing off of bluesy and bop-themed phrases while blowing hard and heavy on uptempo pieces. On slower compositions, Webster turns each note into a mini-symphony, full of distinguished character and preeminent tonality. What a gas.
Originally released by the UK label Black Lion, an imprint that specialized in resurrecting rare gems from US jazz and blues legends, Stormy Weather stands as an unequivocal example of Webster?s dynamic live prowess and a can?t-miss opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to get closer to the man and his music. Orchestrated by ORG Music, this historical reissue is afforded the ultimate in audiophile production standards, resulting in sonics and presentation befitting the museum-like worth of this record?s existence.
- Ben Webster - (tenor saxophone)
- Kenny Drew - (piano)
- Nils Henning Orsted Pederson - (bass)
- Alex Riel - (drums)
Recorded live at the Montmartre Jazzhus, Copenhagen, 30th January 1965.
- SIDE A:
- A1. Our Love Is Here to Stay
- A2. My Romance
- A3. Blues for Herluf
- A4. Londonderry Air
- A5. Mack the Knife
- SIDE B
- B1. I Can't Get Started
- B2. The Theme
- B3. Friskin' the Frog
- B4. Stormy Weather
- B5. Teach Me Tonight
