DEXTER GORDON
|
Dexter Gordon appeared on the famed 52nd Street in New York City with Charlie Parker, Fats Navarro, Miles Davis, Max Roach, and many of the bebop innovators. Gordon became a leading exponent of bebop, with numerous recordings throughout the 1940s and a little bit of the ’50s.
These two albums he recorded in the mid-50’s represent an interlude in his career, midway between the youthful rambunctiousness of his Savoy sides and the maturity of his Blue Notes.
In 1960, Dexter was approached by Alfred Lion to sign with Blue Note Records. For five years, he made on session after another, and they are all considered classics.
Gordon himself considered Go! his greatest achievement. He is one of the most jazz musicians, loved for his stage presence and personal magnetism, and his warm, wide sound. Throughout his 40-year career, Gordon played upbeat plenty of times, but he also had one of the richest, smoothest tones on the tenor saxophone and he is best remembered for his famous rhythmical laid back phrasing, creating space in the music by pitching just behind the beat, forcing his rhythm section to drive the pace.
Our Man in Paris,1963, with Bud Powell, Pierre Michelot & Kenny Clarke.
“Jazz, to me, is a living music. It’s a music that since its beginning has expressed the feelings, the dreams, hopes of the people.” -Dexter Gordon.
|
