Paul Desmond Vinyl Records Lps For Sale
Check out these new and used Paul Desmond vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Paul Desmond vinyl collection with the essential albums Two Of A Mind, Featuring Don Elliott and Summertime. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from jazz musicians.
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Paul Desmond: A Jazz Icon’s Timeless Legacy
Early Life and Musical Journey
Born on November 25, 1924, in San Francisco, Paul Desmond was destined to become a jazz legend. Growing up in a musically inclined family, Desmond’s love for music blossomed at a young age. His father, Emil Breitenfeld, played violin with the San Francisco Symphony, providing a rich musical environment for young Paul.
Desmond initially began learning the violin but switched to the saxophone during his teenage years. His interest in jazz intensified, and by the time he entered college, he was already making waves in the local jazz scene. It was during this period that he crossed paths with Dave Brubeck, a meeting that would change the course of both their lives. Here are the Paul Desmond Tracks and Albums.
The Formation of the Dave Brubeck Quartet
In the early 1950s, the Dave Brubeck Quartet emerged as a groundbreaking force in the jazz world. The quartet, consisting of Brubeck on piano, Desmond on alto saxophone, Eugene Wright on bass, and Joe Morello on drums, created a distinctive sound that blended complex rhythms with melodic improvisation.
Albums with the Dave Brubeck Quartet
1. “Time Out” (1959)
“Time Out” stands as a monumental achievement in the quartet’s discography. Featuring the iconic track “Take Five,” composed by Desmond, the album explores unconventional time signatures, notably 5/4 and 9/8. Desmond’s saxophone work on this album solidified his reputation as a master of lyrical improvisation.
2. “Brubeck Time” (1955)
This early collaboration showcased the developing chemistry between Brubeck and Desmond. The album’s highlights include Desmond’s composition “Audrey” and his inventive improvisations on standards like “Let’s Fall in Love” and “September in the Rain.”
The Paul Desmond Vinyl Band
After a successful run with the Dave Brubeck Quartet, Paul Desmond ventured into solo projects and collaborations with various artists. One notable phase of his career was marked by the formation of the Paul Desmond Vinyl Band, a group that allowed him to explore his musical ideas in a more intimate setting.
Notable Albums with the Paul Desmond Vinyl Band
1. “Pure Desmond” (1975)
“Pure Desmond” captures the essence of Paul Desmond’s unique voice on the alto saxophone. The album features Desmond’s interpretation of jazz standards like “I Should Care” and “Nuages,” showcasing his lyrical and emotionally resonant playing.
2. “Summertime” (1968)
“Summertime” reflects Desmond’s ability to infuse warmth and nostalgia into his music. The album includes memorable renditions of classic tunes such as “Samba With Some Barbecue” and the titular “Summertime,” demonstrating Desmond’s versatility as a musician.
Influences and Inspirations
Paul Desmond’s musical journey was shaped by a myriad of influences, ranging from classical composers to fellow jazz musicians. His love for cool jazz and West Coast jazz was evident in his playing style, marked by a smooth and lyrical approach to improvisation.
Similar Bands in the Jazz Landscape
1. The Modern Jazz Quartet
The Modern Jazz Quartet, with its emphasis on sophisticated compositions and meticulous arrangements, shares similarities with the Dave Brubeck Quartet. Both groups contributed to the evolution of jazz in the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing a blend of intricate rhythms and melodic improvisation.
2. Stan Getz Quartet
Stan Getz, known for his smooth tenor saxophone sound, bears resemblance to Paul Desmond in terms of tone and phrasing. Both saxophonists contributed significantly to the cool jazz movement, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
Paul Desmond’s Enduring Legacy
Paul Desmond’s influence extends far beyond his years, leaving an indelible mark on the world of jazz. His timeless recordings and innovative approach to the saxophone continue to inspire musicians across genres.
Legacy in Contemporary Jazz
Contemporary saxophonists, such as Chris Potter and Joshua Redman, often cite Paul Desmond as a major influence. His legacy lives on through the exploration of melodic improvisation and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz.
Enduring Appeal of “Take Five”
“Take Five,” arguably Paul Desmond’s most famous composition, remains a jazz standard and a cultural touchstone. Its enduring appeal lies in the seamless fusion of complex rhythms, memorable melody, and Desmond’s signature lyrical improvisation.
Conclusion
Paul Desmond’s journey from the lively streets of San Francisco to the forefront of jazz is a testament to his talent and passion for music. The Dave Brubeck Quartet and the Paul Desmond Vinyl Band stand as milestones in his illustrious career, showcasing his ability to innovate within the realms of cool jazz and beyond. As we continue to revisit his timeless recordings, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of a man whose saxophone spoke a language of its own in the vast and ever-evolving landscape of jazz.
Paul Desmond - Bossa Antigua - Limited 180-Gram Vinyl with Bonus Tracks [New Vin
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THE DAVE BRUBECK QUARTET W /PAUL DESMOND -STARDUST-2 LP-FANTASY F-24728- EX/NM
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PAUL DESMOND - Glad to Be Unhappy LP feat. Jim Hall, LSP-3407 1S 1S DG, Clean
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Paul Desmond DESMOND BLUE Vinyl LP Record vg Jim Hall
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The Complete Recordings of The Paul Desmond Quartet with Jim Hall 6xLP Boxset
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PAUL DESMOND & GERRY MULLIGAN 1979 reissue of 1962's Two Of A Mind LP
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Paul Desmond – Pure Desmond 1975 CTI LP Van Gelder, Ron Carter Play Tested EX
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VINYL LP by PAUL DESMOND: SUMMERTIME (1969) JAZZ / A & M RECORDS SP 3015
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PAUL DESMOND lp BOSSA ANTIGUA us RCA VICTOR og VG+VG stereo DYNA sax BRAZIL!!
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Paul Desmond ex ssm GF LP From the Hot Afternoon
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SEALED - Brubeck & Desmond - 1975: The Duets - 1975 A&M SP-703 LP Vinyl Record
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Paul Desmond - Glad to Be Unhappy (1965) Vinyl LP • Jim Hall, A Taste of Honey
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PAUL DESMOND WITH STRINGS Desmond Blue LP 1962 1ST PRESS w/ INNER VG+/VG+ Jazz
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The Dave Brubeck Quartet With Paul Desmond UK Jazz The College Of The Pacific
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THE PAUL DESMOND QUARTET LIVE 12" 2-LP SET VG+ VINYL RECORD GATEFOLD FREE SHIP
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Paul Desmond -Late Lament (Like-New LP)
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PAUL DESMOND BOSSA ANTIGUA RCA PG26 Japan CAP OBI INSERT SHRINK VINYL 12
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Paul Desmond ~ The Only Recorded Performance ~ Finesse 25PJ-50 Japan LP OBI
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Dave Brubeck Gerry Mulligan Paul Desmond Mobile Fidelity MOFI sealed LP
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Paul Desmond – Take Ten ; MONO 1963 LP VINYL VG COVER G+
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