Hal Stein Quartet Spirit ! CD

Saxophone legend Hal Stein presents his first recording as a leader in 50 years! There are many talented jazz saxophonists today, but few possess such an authentic, soulful, full-bodied sound. Stein has performed professionally since the age of 16, worki

Hal Stein: Hal Stein; Lee Bloom (piano); John Wiitala (6-string bass); Danny Spencer.
Personnel: Hal Stein (tenor saxophone); Lee Bloom (piano); Danny Spencer (drums).
Audio Mixer: Todd Phillips.
Liner Note Authors: Hal Stein; John Wiitala; Danny Spencer; Lee Bloom.
Recording information: Bay Records, Berkeley, CA (01/31/2005-05/01/2005); Expressions, Emeryville, CA (01/31/2005-05/01/2005).
Author: Lee Hildebrand.
Photographer: George Gunnell.
Seventy-six at the time of this CD, veteran tenor saxophonist Hal Stein is remarkably heard in prime form. Perhaps best known for his occasional recordings in the '50s, Stein had long lived in the San Francisco Bay area and had not recorded in quite awhile before cutting this quartet date in 2005. His large tone and style are at times a bit reminiscent of early Sonny Rollins and Don Byas but Stein mostly sounds like himself, and he shows that he has not lost a thing through the years. Joined by a fine local rhythm section that includes pianist Lee Bloom, Stein explores some of his favorite songs, including several obscurities such as Herbie Nichols' catchy "Shuffle Montgomery," André Previn's "Two for the Seesaw," and the always welcome "Autumn Nocturne." This high-quality straight-ahead jazz set is highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow