Search - Phil Woods, Michel Legrand Orchestra :: Images

Woods cooks!

Dylan R. Cramer | North Vancouver, B.C. Canada | 08/05/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is one of Phil Woods's best recordings from his illustrious recording career, and documents his complete command and prowess on the alto back in the 1970's. The first half of the recording contains a collection of melodic songs that Phil plays perfectly with lush tone, elegant feeling and great warmth. The second half of the recording features Woods as a soloist in front of a big band, playing a suite composed by Michel Legrand.

This piece will knock your socks off and leave you breathless and astounded, as Woods displays his unbelievable technique and wealth of improvisational abilities. This is a must recording for any alto saxophonists who want to hear one of the true masters of the alto at work during his prime. Dig it and enjoy!"

Nothing short of brilliant

James A. Vedda | Alexandria, VA USA | 03/30/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you only know Michel Legrand for his movie scores, then you've missed the best work of this outstanding jazz pianist, composer, and arranger. Legrand was fond of working in the U.S. jazz scene, and worked with Phil Woods on a number of occasions. When this recording was made in 1975, Woods was beginning the most productive period in his career, putting out one great album after another, including a Grammy Award-winning live album in 1976. "Images" puts these two artists - both of whom seem comfortable in any setting - together with a full orchestra for about 40 minutes of unique and delightful sounds.

Every jazz collection should have some orchestral jazz, and this is one of the must-have albums in that genre. It offers lush renditions of some popular tunes and a nod to the Romantic Era with a version of "Clair de Lune." A couple of my favorites are the very pretty "Nicole" and the sultry "I Was Born In Love With You." But the clincher is the title track "Images." This is a tour de force for both artists. It's worth the price of the CD for this track alone.

For another must-have album in a similar vein, see my review of "Floresta Canto" by Phil Woods."

Emotional Music

Norm Hall | California | 09/27/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A very unusual Phil Woods album. A great be-bop player, here Woods is playing over lush strings some of the most beautiful melodies ever written. Legrand plays some very nice piano in support. This album is for listeners who like to be taken on emotional rides to the heavens."