Release Date: 1962
Song Count: 8
Duration: 33 minutes, 36 seconds
Rating: 6.8/10
Description:
Song Count: 8
Duration: 33 minutes, 36 seconds
Rating: 6.8/10
Description:
At long last, we have finally got an old-time jazz album in our hands once again! This one is from Bronx-born alto saxophone pioneer Benny Carter from all the way back in the 60s, right when the genre was hitting some of its highest peaks in terms of artistry and popularity. An icon of the musical movement who had an incredibly long-lasting career at over 8 decades, this guy spearheaded the sound of a beloved instrument and arranged loads of pieces over the course of his life, and never strayed from his passions up until his passing in 2003. One of his many, many releases is Further Definitions, an album which he expanded on with additional tracks in 1966 - the version we are listening to today is the original version from four years prior with 8 songs, however.
A classically arranged album comprised of 33 minutes of signature jazz-like qualities plays out in one's ears as the saxophones lead the line for pianos, contrabass and percussion to follow. It all flows into a natural, freestyle-sounding stream that finds its own complex melodies and identity as it goes, slotting itself into the well-trodden path of instrumental improvisation. With plenty to sink into and appreciate, the contents provide impressing amounts of musical prowess from all involved whilst sounding bouncy and fun throughout.
The primary thing holding back Further Definitions and works of the like for yours truly remains the unfortunate unfamiliarity of the style to my ears primarily trained on much more contemporary styles of music. Nevertheless is it easy to notice the scale of highly respectable work and craftsmanship from Benny Carter and his backing musicians and give it its deserving accolades, as well as the simple enjoyment the tracks bring with their dynamic progressions and such. A solid older album that I wish I had more of a knowing ear for to truly take it in with, but as it stands, still a decent listen all around.