Happy birthday to Joe Farrell (born 12/16/37), a terrific and versatile tenor and soprano saxophonist who died tragically young at 48 of a blood-related cancer in 1986. Part of a generation of saxophonists who essentially absorbed John Coltranes influence in real time, hes still probably best known for his work on flute and soprano sax in Chick Coreas original Return to Forever in the early 70s, but he was also the saxophonist in Elvin Jones first post-Coltrane group (a lean trio with Jimmy Garrison) and an original member of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis band. Hes on a zillion records as a sideman. As a leader the ones to get are the early dates for CTI in 1970-72, especially the first two, Joe Farrell Quartet and Outback, and, though its not quite as good, Moon Germs. As a group they balance open post-bop swinging with nascent fusion; leaving aside the early 70s studio mix and certain electronic effects, the playing still sounds fresh and contemporary. Heres the lead-off track from Joe Farrell Quartet, a great record thats all the more remarkable when you consider its a debut. The rhythm section -- Chick, David Holland, Jack DeJohnette -- is lifted straight from the Miles Davis band, with guitarist John McLaughlin as a guest. The song is Follow Your Heart by McLaughlin. Fellow Bloomingtonians will recognize this version as the theme song for Michael Bournes afternoon show, There, on WFIU. I heard this practically every day for years, and even today the opening bass, guitar and drums create for me a current of anticipation. When the saxophone enters Im suddenly 16 again and music and life seem to pulsate with possibilities. It still makes me feel that way. https://youtube/watch?v=5U5mzbQjDH8
Posted on: Tue, 16 Dec 2014 05:13:05 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015