Monday, February 8, 2016

Scott Hamilton & Harry Allen - Live! (2016)


Label: Gac Records
Source: Cdbaby


Scott Hamilton and Harry Allen have been performing together for many years and this is the first live recording they've released together. It features a collection of classic tenor saxophone songs and battles. The stellar rhythm section of pianist Rossano Sportiello, bassist Paul Keller and drummer Leon Joyce Jr. are swinging like crazy from the first note. Recorded live at Kuumbwa Jazz in Santa Cruz, CA.

Scott Hamilton is an important figure in jazz.  He was largely responsible for the surge in straight-ahead swinging jazz in the late 1980's and 90's, bringing the music back from a period lost to more electronic jazz.  On a personal note, he was almost solely responsible for the early direction of my musical development and has been a source of inspiration throughout the years.  Not to mention, of course, that he is one of the most incredible musicians and saxophonists on the planet.  

Rossano Sportiello, a protegé of legendary pianist Barry Harris, was born and raised near Milan, Italy. After receiving a degree in classical piano and astounding European audiences with his unique style combining modern influences with a dose of the great stride piano tradition, he moved to New York City eight years ago and has been taking the jazz world by storm… recently completing a successful run headlining at The Café Carlyle. Upon hearing his first notes it is abundantly clear why he is a favorite amongst musicians and listeners alike.

Paul Keller is one of the great bass players of our time and a prolific composer, arranger and educator.  He has performed with just about everyone, from Diana Krall to Jay McShann, making every band he plays with swing like there’s no tomorrow.

Leon Joyce Jr. rounds out the band in grand style on drums. His artistry and infectious beat has graced the bandstands of such luminaries as Ramsey Lewis, Nancy Wilson and Smokey Robinson.

The set begins with Apple Honey, a Woody Herman tune written over Gershwin’s I Got Rhythm. The first tenor solo is played by Harry with Scott taking the second. Scott leads off the trading between the two tenors.  Read More...


01. Apple Honey (Live) (14:35)
02. The Lonesome Road (Live) (10:04)
03. Tickle Toe (Live) ( 9:07)
04. A Sound Investment (Live) (11:06)
05. Body And Soul (Live) ( 8:48)
06. Blues Up And Down (14:46)


Scott Hamilton and Harry Allen - tenor sax
Rossano Sportiello - piano
Paul Keller - bass
Leon Joyce Jr. - drums


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