Archie Shepp - Left Alone Revisited (LP)

In February 2002, the legendary saxophonist Archie Shepp and the esteemed pianist Mal Waldron came together at La Muse en Circuit Studios in Paris, France, to record "Left Alone Revisited." This captivating album, released on January 1, 2002, under the Enja Horst Weber label, is a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Billie Holiday, featuring a mix of jazz standards and poignant originals.

Spanning just under an hour, the album delves into a variety of jazz styles, from free jazz and avant-garde to hard bop, showcasing the incredible chemistry between Shepp and Waldron. The tracklist includes timeless classics like "Easy Living," "Nice Work if You Can Get It," and "I Only Have Eyes For You," as well as lesser-known gems like "Blues For 52nd Street" and "Porgy." The album also features a spoken word version of "Left Alone," adding a unique dimension to the collection.

Recorded directly to digital two-track for optimal sound quality, "Left Alone Revisited" captures the raw and intimate performances of Shepp and Waldron. The album has been well-received, with a solid rating of 3.74 out of 5 on RYM, reflecting its enduring appeal to jazz enthusiasts. Whether you're a longtime fan of Archie Shepp or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling exploration of his artistry and a fitting homage to Billie Holiday.