Customer Reviews

I Remember

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This is an exceptionally creative tribute album. It's also one of many albums by Woods that demonstrate his mastery as both an instrumentalist and a composer/arranger. Woods did all the writing for this 1978 recording, which features not only his quartet but also big band instrumentation, additional woodwinds, French horns, and a string quartet. This musical artillery is employed just where it's needed - no more and no less. The sounds are sometimes big band, sometimes small group, sometimes orchestra, and it's all seamlessly linked.
The tributes on this album don't just go out to fellow saxophonists, although Charlie Parker, Cannonball Adderley, Paul Desmond, and Oliver Nelson are among those honored here. The remaining tracks recognize bassist Oscar Pettiford, percussionist Willie Rodriguez, trombonist Willie Dennis, and vibraphonist Gary McFarland. These are people that Woods worked closely with and admired. He creates interesting themes for each of them that range from swinging to somber. These constitute a salute to their personality and musical genius rather than an attempt to imitate, and the result is a treat for jazz listeners.
Woods plays alto sax on all tracks except "Flatjacks Willie" where he switches to soprano sax. The mid-to-late 1970s were a very productive period for him, and fans should not miss this album. The original liner notes by Herb Wong are included.

My eight grade band director suggested I buy this album (originally released in 1979). This album continues to be one of my favorites. Not only is Phil's playing great, but I love the fact that he composed and dedicated each song to those who had a major influence on him. With that being said, I was able to then explore Phil's influences and broaded my own jazz library in a more educated manor. If you can find it, get it. You will not be disapointed!

This is a great album. The "Paul" track written for Paul Desmond is worth the price alone. It opens with a classical string quartet which is beautful and then Phils enters playing like Desmond did. Mindblowing! All the tracks are wonderful as you would expect from Phil Woods.

Phil swings hard on this recording as he pays tribute to his mentors and friends. Phil is the alto sax.