Black Saint is an album by American jazz saxophonist Billy Harper recorded in 1975 for the Italian Black Saint label. The album was the first release for the record label.
AllMusic Review by Glenn Astarita:
Tenor saxophonist Billy Harper helped launch the Italy-based Black Saint jazz label with this 1975 release. And not only does this represent the inaugural outing for the label, it also signifies one of the finest modern jazz releases of the ’70s. Influenced by tenor sax giant John Coltrane, Harper proceeded to mold a distinctly personalized sound awash with slight inferences of R&B and hard bop. Additionally, the saxophonist’s melodic gifts come to the forefront throughout this often-invigorating studio date. On the opening piece, titled “Dance Eternal Spirits, Dance,” the tenor saxophonist fuses an engagingly melodic theme with lightning-fast flurries atop a peppery jazz waltz groove. Harper radiantly executes soul-searching lines atop a loosely based jazz waltz/swing vamp during “Croquet Ballet,” as he alternates lower-register voicings with high-pitched, plaintive cries. Here the artist shrewdly reworks the primary melody as he literally interrogates his tenor saxophone. Highlights abound, while trumpeter Virgil Jones and pianist Joe Bonner provide Harper with buoyant frameworks via hearty soloing and intuitive support. Vigorously recommended (https://goo.gl/DnBfa7).
Track listing:
All compositions by Billy Harper.
“Dance, Eternal Spirits, Dance!” – 6:52
“Croquet Ballet” – 13:02
“Call of the Wild and Peaceful Heart” – 21:22
Recorded at Barclay Studios in Paris, France on July 21 & 22, 1975
Personnel:
Billy Harper – tenor saxophone, cowbell
Virgil Jones – trumpet
Joe Bonner – piano
David Friesen – bass
Malcolm Pinson – drums
_________________________
Released: 1975
Recorded: July 21–22, 1975
Length: 41:10
Label: Black Saint
Producer: Giacomo Pellicciotti
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