Contemporary jazz fans rejoice! If you’re looking for a live recording of jams and standards, then you should definitely check out the Walt Weiskopf Quartet’s album Live (Koger Hall, Univ. of South Carolina).
Tenor saxophonist Walt Weiskopf has been hailed by many as this generation’s John Coltrane. His signature style and passion for his art has captivated fans throughout the years and allowed him to keep glamorous company onstage. Weiskopf has performed and recorded with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Steve Smith’s Jazz Legacy, Donald Fagen and Steely Dan, among other artists. It’s easy to see why these legends kept him close.
The album consists of eight tracks, five of them being original pieces, the others treasured jazz classics such as the Nat Cole hit, “Blame It On My Youth” and Cole Porter’s “Love For Sale.” Initially, this recording was done for archival purposes, but sadly transformed into a tribute months later. That’s because it marks the group’s final performance together following the untimely passing of drummer Tony Reedus.
Live does Reedus’s musical legacy justice. His instrumentals propel the arrangements forward as pianist Renee Rosnes and bassist Paul Gill hold their own in solos. However, it is Weiskopf himself who commands the spotlight. His playing style throughout the first four tracks - “Man of Many Colors,” “Little Minor Love Song,” “Dizzy Spells” and “Blues in the Day” - is crystal clear and full of energy, leaving no doubt as to his musical prowess.
However, with that still being said, the album as a whole is not all that remarkable. Perhaps in person it was nothing short of spectacular, but the excitement fails to translate in this medium. It pains me to be so harsh under these circumstances. I do appreciate their efforts, but overall Live was a bit lackluster.
If you’re interested in learning more about Walt Weiskopf, please visit his website.
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