Dive into the vibrant world of hard bop with Greg Abate's "Horace Is Here: A Tribute to Horace Silver," a captivating homage to the legendary jazz pianist and composer. Released in 2011, this album is a testament to Abate's mastery of the saxophone and his deep respect for Silver's influential work.
Recorded at the PBS Studios, this album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Claudio Roditi on trumpet, Marshall Wood on bass, Hilton Ruiz on piano, and Artie Cabral on drums. Together, they bring Silver's compositions to life with a fresh energy and a deep understanding of the hard bop tradition.
The album spans a little over an hour and thirteen minutes, offering a rich tapestry of ten tracks that showcase the depth and breadth of Silver's musical genius. From the upbeat and swinging "Mayreh" to the soulful and introspective "Song for My Father," each piece is a masterclass in jazz composition and performance.
Abate's saxophone soars and wails, capturing the spirit of Silver's music while adding his own unique voice to the mix. The rhythm section is tight and dynamic, providing a solid foundation for the horn players to explore and improvise. Roditi's trumpet adds a bright and brassy counterpoint to Abate's saxophone, while Ruiz's piano and Wood's bass anchor the ensemble with a deep and groove-laden sound.
"Horace Is Here" is not just a tribute to a jazz legend; it's a celebration of the hard bop tradition and a testament to the enduring power of jazz music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Horace Silver or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire. So, grab your headphones and get ready to experience the magic of Greg Abate and his tribute to Horace Silver.
