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Lou Donaldson Quartet: Live On The QE 2
ByYou can generally count on time-honored alto saxophonist Lou Donaldson for an effervescent brew consisting of peppery soul grooves and bop-ish swing, which is prominently evident on his latest release recorded for the folks aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 cruise ship.
Live On The QE2 features the saxophonist along with jazz heavyweights such as Hammond B-3 master, Dr. Lonnie Smith, guitarist Randy Johnston and drummer Danny Burger as trumpeter Nicholas Payton joins the band on the Gershwin-Duke classic, “I Can’t Get Started With You.” A hearty mix of standards and originals, Donaldson exhibits a soft touch amid fleet-fingered lines on “Harlem Nocturne” while also jabbing and sparring with Johnston and Smith as the soloists effectively rework the primary theme via jarring solos, augmented by Burger’s straight-ahead swing pulse. Although the sonic characteristics tend to be a bit flat, the musicians compensate for less than optimum recording conditions with strong ensemble work and a seemingly carefree and altogether convivial demeanor. Hence, the festive surroundings of being on a luxury cruise ship are conveyed quite vividly throughout this charismatic affair.
Donaldson’s entertaining vocals on “Whiskey Drinkin’ Woman” and Bill Broonzy’s “It Was A Dream” pumps up the crowd while he displays his signature soul//bop style of attack on Charlie Parker’s “Now’s The Time.” All in all, the band’s breezy passages and–full steam ahead–approach sums it all up rather nicely.
Personnel
Lou Donaldson
saxophoneLou Donaldson: alto saxophone, vocals; Dr. Lonnie Smith: Hammond B-3 organ; Randy Johnston: guitar; Danny Burger: drums; Nicholas Payton: trumpet.
Album information
Title: Live On The QE 2 | Year Released: 2000 | Record Label: Chiaroscuro Records
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About Lou Donaldson
Instrument: Saxophone
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