Dive into the creative mind of jazz legend Duke Jordan with "Sketching for Les Liaisons Dangereuses," a captivating collection of unreleased recordings set to hit shelves on June 13, 2025, via the esteemed SteepleChase label. This unique album offers a rare glimpse into Jordan's compositional process, featuring early sketches and multiple takes of tracks he would later expand for Roger Vadim's film score. Spanning a variety of jazz styles, from hard bop and bebop to cool jazz, the album showcases Jordan's virtuosity and innovative spirit.
"Sketching for Les Liaisons Dangereuses" is a treasure trove for jazz enthusiasts, presenting 21 tracks that reveal the evolution of Jordan's musical ideas. The album opens with four takes of "Flip-Top," demonstrating the pianist's meticulous approach to crafting his compositions. Subsequent tracks like "St. Germain," "32nd Street Love," and "Kiss Of Spain" further illustrate Jordan's mastery of the genre, with each take offering subtle variations and refinements.
The album's standout tracks include the hauntingly beautiful "Midnight Moonlight" and the playful "Danish Pastry," both of which highlight Jordan's ability to evoke a wide range of moods and atmospheres. The album concludes with two takes of "Prince Marlboro," a lively and upbeat number that showcases Jordan's signature style.
With a running time of 56 minutes, "Sketching for Les Liaisons Dangereuses" is a testament to Duke Jordan's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the world of jazz. This album is not just a collection of songs but a window into the creative process of one of the genre's most influential figures. Whether you're a longtime fan of Duke Jordan or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
