Blues & Ballads by Benjamin Koppel, Charlie Mariano, Jacob Karlzon, Jesper Lundgaard & Alex Riel
Led by the legendary Charlie Mariano and Benjamin Koppel, the album
Blues & Ballads reaches back into the history of classic jazz, a genre that Mariano has perfected since the 1950s as the steadfast saxophonist in ensembles led by, among others, Charlie Mingus. Here, form and content come together within a framework of pure jazz and authentic jazz compositions, all except one, written by Benjamin Koppel. Although the tones and improvisations venture beyond conventions, the format remains
classically structured with the interplay between two saxophones and a jazz trio. Joining the trio is one of the world's leading drummers, the Danish award-winning Alex Riel, who this year celebrates his 50th anniversary.
Tracklist
| 1. | Ouverture For a Ballad | 1:38 |
| 2. | Pasadena Pancakes | 5:45 |
| 3. | Farewell My Heart, My House | 5:26 |
| 4. | That Degree of Excitement | 7:14 |
| 5. | Moving Out | 7:50 |
| 6. | Free-bop-a-lula | 7:54 |
| 7. | In Their Sleep | 10:08 |
| 8. | One 4 Count (Basie's Blues) | 6:12 |
| 9. | Adjö Adjö | 4:32 |
| 10. | St. Louis Blues | 9:19 |
Credits
All tracks composed by Benjamin Koppel except #9, a traditional arranged by B. Koppel & #10 by W. C. Handy
#Cowbell Music
License
All rights reserved.
Benjamin Koppel is a superb Danish musician from an illustrious music family. He is all about music—of just about any kind. He is known for his versatility and virtuosity as a saxophonist and composer. His approach is thoughtful, not manic, and he glides effortlessly from phrase to phrase when he pours out blazing bebop licks, quick and smooth.