GEORGES ARVANITAS QUINTET - SOUL JAZZ (180G IMPORT LP)

Georges Arvanitas Quintet Soul Jazz on 180g Import LP

Any European jazz lover won’t hesitate to tell you. Soul Jazz is without a doubt one of the most rare French modern jazz records and a cult offering that collectors snap up for big bucks. Recorded in November of 1960, this classic brings together the era’s finest French jazzmen (Georges Arvanitas, François Jeanneau, Bernard Vitet, Michael Gaudry and Daniel Humai) who impeccably interpret the bop and hard bop compositions of Bobby Timmons, Thelonious Monk, Max Roach, Sonny Rollins and Bud Powell. The quintet’s energy is dazzling, the vigor of their swing captivating, while their sound evokes the best Blue Note sessions of the time.

Leading this magical formation we find virtuoso pianist Georges Arvanitas, who knew how to blend all styles of piano jazz thanks to his contact with several American jazzmen passing through France (Mezz Mezzrow, Bill Coleman, Don Byas, Buck Clayton, James Moody). Having become a pillar of the French jazz scene after the war, he performed in mythical Parisian clubs such as Tabou, Club Saint-Germain and the Blue Note before starting to release records under his own name.

Throughout his career he would play with an impressive number of renowned jazzmen, while at the same time being heavily involved in variety as a studio musician. He notably played the organ on Gainsbourg’s famous Je T'aime, Moi Non Plus. Michel Legrand who loved his game would also call upon him for several original soundtracks. A record from youth, Soul Jazz has lost nothing of its spirit and shine, and serves as historical proof of French Jazz’s originality.

Georges Arvanitas Quintet Soul Jazz Track Listing:

1.      This There
2.     Bemsha Swing
3.     Oblivion
4.     Sonnymoon For Two
5.     Mister X
6.     Bohemia After Dark
7.     Un Poco Loco
8.     Monk's Mood
9.     Bouncin' With Bud