"Salutes Bessie Smith" by Amina Claudine Myers is a captivating journey into the world of jazz, blending the raw power of free jazz with the soulful essence of vocal jazz. Released in 1996 under Leo Records, this album is a tribute to the legendary Bessie Smith, featuring six tracks that showcase Myers' extraordinary talent as a vocalist and organist. Recorded and mixed at Big Apple Studio in New York in 1980, the album boasts a stellar lineup with bassist Cecil McBee and drummer Jimmy Lovelace, creating a rich, dynamic sound that pays homage to the blues and jazz traditions.
The album opens with "Wasted Life Blues," a hauntingly beautiful track that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Each subsequent song, from the gritty "Dirty No-Gooder's Blues" to the poignant "Jailhouse Blues," offers a unique blend of Myers' powerful vocals and masterful organ playing. The album's standout tracks, "It Makes My Love Come Down" and "The Blues (Straight To You)," highlight Myers' ability to infuse traditional blues with a modern, free jazz sensibility. The album closes with "African Blues," a track that seamlessly weaves together the various musical influences that define Myers' sound.
With a duration of 43 minutes, "Salutes Bessie Smith" is a testament to Amina Claudine Myers' artistry and her deep respect for the blues and jazz legends who came before her. This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of jazz and the enduring power of the blues.
This 2010 Limited Edition Numbered Reissue Remastered Special Edition LP is pressed on 180g vinyl.
