Description

Benny Carter 4 -Montreux 77 – Cassette

Benny Carter 4’s Montreux ’77 is a live jazz album recorded at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland in 1977, featuring the legendary saxophonist Benny Carter alongside a stellar rhythm section. Known for his extraordinary career as a saxophonist, trumpeter, composer, and arranger, Carter was a central figure in the development of jazz from the swing era onward. Montreux ’77 captures Carter in peak form, performing in an intimate quartet setting that showcases his timeless style, smooth tone, and masterful improvisation. Accompanying Carter are Ray Bryant on piano, Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen on bass, and Jimmie Smith on drums, all bringing a vibrant energy to this elegant performance.

For this concert at the 1977 Montreux Jazz Festival, Benny Carter was in his musical prime, a condition he has thus far stayed at for over 65 years. Joined by the Ray Bryant Trio, the altoist romps through seven standards and plays some tasteful trumpet on ‘Body and Soul,’ proving once again that he is really is ageless; Carter was nearly 70 years old at the time.

The album features Carter’s impeccable alto saxophone playing, which is rich, fluid, and effortlessly expressive. Known for his lyrical phrasing and smooth, warm tone, Carter navigates the set with grace, blending the swing roots of his youth with the sophistication of modern jazz. The small quartet setting allows for close musical interplay, with each musician adding depth and character to the performance. Ray Bryant’s bluesy piano lines, Ørsted Pedersen’s impeccable bass work, and Jimmie Smith’s rhythmic drumming provide a perfect foundation, allowing Carter to explore both relaxed ballads and faster swing numbers.

The repertoire on Montreux ’77 includes jazz standards and blues, as well as pieces that highlight Carter’s versatility as a soloist. Themes of romance, nostalgia, and joy are prevalent, with Carter delivering each melody with elegance and a sense of emotional depth. The album captures Carter’s reverence for jazz tradition while also showcasing his ability to adapt and bring freshness to classic material.

Notable Tracks on Montreux ’77

‘Three Little Words’ – A lively opener, this track features Carter’s expressive phrasing and mastery over swing. The rhythm section supports him with a steady, swinging beat, making it a bright, engaging introduction.
‘Body and Soul’ – Carter’s rendition of this ballad is soulful and tender, with a warmth and intimacy that highlights his lyrical phrasing. The quartet’s restrained backing allows Carter’s alto sax to shine.
‘Wave’ – A nod to bossa nova, this Antonio Carlos Jobim tune showcases Carter’s ability to adapt to Latin rhythms. His relaxed phrasing and Bryant’s piano work bring a breezy, tropical feel to the piece.
‘Here’s That Rainy Day’ – A ballad that allows Carter to explore the melancholy and beauty of the melody. His delicate touch on the alto saxophone is full of nuance and emotion, making it one of the album’s standout moments.

Montreux ’77 is a testament to Benny Carter’s enduring artistry and adaptability across decades. As a major figure who influenced generations of jazz musicians, Carter’s work on this album demonstrates his unwavering command over the alto saxophone and his ability to bring fresh interpretations to jazz standards, even late in his career. The recording serves as a reminder of Carter’s contributions to jazz, from his role in developing the alto saxophone as a lead instrument in the swing era to his ongoing influence in modern jazz settings.

For fans of jazz, Montreux ’77 is an essential listen, capturing a legendary musician at one of the world’s premier jazz festivals. The album’s intimate quartet format provides a close-up view of Carter’s skill and finesse, making it a timeless recording that honors the legacy of a jazz giant.

Pablo Records

Song List
Three Little Words
In A Mellow Tone
Wave
Undecided
Body And Soul
On Green Dolphin Street
Here’s That Rainy Day