Kenny Burrell, the legendary jazz guitarist, delivers a captivating live experience with "The Road to Love," recorded at the iconic Catalina's in 2015. This album is a testament to Burrell's mastery of the genre, blending hard bop, bebop, cool jazz, soul jazz, and jazz blues into a seamless and soulful journey. The tracklist is a mix of classic tunes and Burrell's own compositions, each track recorded live to capture the raw energy and spontaneity of the performance.
Burrell's guitar work is as precise as it is expressive, showcasing his unique ability to convey deep emotion and technical prowess. The album opens with "Salty Papa" and closes with "Things Ain't What They Used to Be," framing a set that includes standards like "Li'l Darlin'" and "Teach Me Tonight," as well as Burrell's own compositions like "Brush Magic" and "Single Petal of a Rose." Each track is introduced by Burrell himself, adding a personal touch and context to the performance.
"The Road to Love" is a celebration of jazz in its purest form, highlighting Burrell's enduring influence and contributions to the genre. The album's duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes offers a substantial and satisfying listen, with each track contributing to the overall narrative of Burrell's musical journey. Released under HighNote Records, this album is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering a glimpse into the world of one of the genre's most respected and beloved artists.
