playlist #9 | Paul Desmond: Melodic Maestro

Paul Desmond has left an everlasting footprint in cool jazz history. His smooth and lyrical alto saxophone playing is instantly recognizable and continues to captivate us to this day. Let’s take five tracks most of you had the pleasure of listening to in his extensive discography.

Take Five (Time Out, 1959)

Released in 1959 as part of the iconic album Time Out (Dave Brubeck Quartet), this Paul Desmond composition is an absolute treasure. With its catchy 5/4 time signature and Desmond’s smooth alto saxophone melodies, “Take Five” has become one of the most recognizable jazz tunes of all time.

• Paul Desmond (alto sax)
• Dave Brubeck (piano)
• Eugene Wright (bass)
• Joe Morello (drums)

Emily (Summertime, 1969)

From his album Summertime, released in 1969, comes the enchanting ballad “Emily.” Paul Desmond’s tender saxophone tones gracefully dance, creating a dreamy atmosphere that transports you to a place of pure serenity.

• Paul Desmond (alto sax)
• Paul Faulise, Urbie Green, J. J. Johnson, Kai Winding (trombone)
• Burt Collins, Joe Shepley, Marvin Stamm (trumpet, flugelhorn)
• Ray Alonge, Jimmy Buffington (French horn)
• Herbie Hancock (piano)
• Ron Carter (bass)

Wendy

“Wendy”, recorded live in 1975 at Toronto, Canada, is a delightful and infectious composition performed by Paul Desmond Quartet. This song simply falls you in smooth, sweet, and warm musical conversations.

• Paul Desmond (alto sax)
• Ed Bickert (guitar)
• Don Thompson (bass)
• Jerry Fuller (drums)

Samba de Orfeu (TAKE TEN, 1963)

Paul Desmond and Jim Hall Quartet in 1963 comes the vibrant Latin-infused track “Samba de Orfeu.” This spirited composition captures the essence of Brazilian rhythms fused with Desmond’s signature coolness on saxophone.

• Paul Desmond (alto sax)
• Jim Hall (guitar)
• Connie Kay (drums)

Bossa Antigua (Bossa Antigua, 1964)

“Bossa Antigua”, loosely translated “old thing” in English is such a charming musical vacation to Desmond’s impeccable phrasing and lyrical approach on his soft palette. No need anything, just lend your ears to this beautiful melody.

• Paul Desmond (alto sax)
• Jim Hall (guitar)
• Eugene Wright (bass)
• Connie Kay (drums)

(header image credit: wikipedia - Take Five, selmer.fr)