Description
Phil Woods Quartet – Volume One – Cassette
Phil Woods Quartet – Volume One is an album by the American jazz saxophonist Phil Woods, released in 1977. The album features Woods leading a quartet consisting of himself on alto saxophone, George Mraz on bass, Richard Beirach on piano, and Adam Nussbaum on drums.
The five selections (which are joined by a brief ‘Phil’s Theme’) are superior jazz standards: Charlie Parker’s blues ‘Bloomdido,’ ‘Everything I Love,’ Benny Golson’s ‘Along Came Betty’ and Bud Powell’s ‘Hallunciations.’
Altoist Phil Woods and his regular group, pianist Mike Melillo, bassist Steve Gilmore and drummer Bill Goodwin, are in typically inspired form, and the results are high-quality modern bop.
Phil Woods is known for his exceptional skill and artistry on the alto saxophone, and ‘Volume One’ showcases his virtuosic playing and improvisational abilities. The album captures the quartet in a series of dynamic and engaging performances, exploring a mix of original compositions and jazz standards.
The music on ‘Volume One’ blends elements of bebop, hard bop, and post-bop, with Woods’ distinctive tone and melodic sensibility taking center stage. The quartet demonstrates tight musical interplay and a strong sense of chemistry throughout the album.
Standout tracks on ‘Volume One’ include ‘Bloomdido,’ ‘Everything I Love,’ and ‘Phil’s Theme.’ These songs display Woods’ technical mastery and his ability to infuse his playing with emotion and expression.
‘Volume One’ received critical acclaim upon its release and solidified Phil Woods’ reputation as one of the leading alto saxophonists in jazz. The album showcases his unique voice as a musician and his ability to push the boundaries of the bebop tradition while honoring its roots.
For fans of jazz, particularly those who appreciate the alto saxophone and the bebop tradition, ‘Phil Woods Quartet – Volume One’ is a captivating listening experience. It represents a significant release in Woods’ discography and exemplifies his contributions to the world of jazz music.
Clean Cuts Records
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Song List
1. Bloomdido
2. Everything I Love
3. Along Came Betty
4. Hallucinations
5. Phil’s Theme









