Charles Lloyd - Hagar's Song (LP)

"Hagar's Song" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary saxophonist Charles Lloyd, released on ECM Records in February 2013. This album is a collaborative effort with the renowned pianist Jason Moran, recorded in April 2012. The album spans a generous 1 hour and 8 minutes, featuring 14 tracks that blend jazz and free jazz genres, showcasing the artists' virtuosity and creativity.

The album opens with "Pretty Girl," setting a smooth and inviting tone, followed by a rendition of the classic "Mood Indigo." Charles Lloyd's versatility is on full display as he switches between alto and tenor saxophone, as well as alto and bass flute. The album includes a suite titled "Hagar Suite," consisting of five interconnected pieces that demonstrate the depth and breadth of Lloyd's compositional skills.

"Hagar's Song" features a mix of original compositions and reinterpretations of standards, such as "Bess, You Is My Woman Now" and "You've Changed." The album also includes a cover of "I Shall Be Released" by Bob Dylan and "God Only Knows" by The Beach Boys, showcasing the artists' ability to infuse new life into familiar tunes.

The collaboration between Charles Lloyd and Jason Moran is a highlight of the album, with Moran's piano playing adding rich textures and rhythmic complexity to Lloyd's melodic lines. The album is a testament to the enduring power of jazz and the continued relevance of Charles Lloyd as a master of the genre.