| Jazz |
Richie Cole was a highly prolific composer and saxophonist who produced countless albums. He accompanied many jazz stars such as Manhattan Transfer or Art Pepper, to name just a few. He passed away too soon in 2020. PopBop is a nod to bebop, from which he borrows some attributes, but in a jazz/pop/funk form that was his secret specialty. Mixing genres and styles was his calling. Since the 1970s, he was part of the bebop movement. On this album, PopBop, Richie indulges in one of his pleasures, Latin music, which takes you away right from the beginning of the B side of this LP. This album was one of the best-sellers at the time in its category due to the quality of compositions and arrangements, as well as Richie Cole’s majestic saxophone playing.
Richie Cole had a clear idea of what kind of music he wanted to make. In 2018, he told writer George W. Harris, “I had many offers to do fusion, smooth jazz, or whatever they would be doing. It just didn’t interest me. I followed my convictions.” This statement shouldn’t be seen as that of a grumpy man, but rather that of an artist who had a precise vision of his art. In a time when almost everyone was diving into different styles, Richie stood his ground and perfected his craft. This is evident in his meticulous attacks at the beginning of musical phrases, his way of riding the nuances, all without ever losing the listener’s attention.
This reissue is of very good quality, recorded digitally in 1986 and released in 1987, when CDs were already well-established. The LP has good dynamics and excellent sound definition. It can be listened to and replayed endlessly for its beauty and the pleasant surprises it holds. Younger generations who appreciate LPs can discover a rare artist whose music continues to survive and will endure for a long time. On some tracks, you even have the opportunity to hear Richie Cole’s voice. It’s also a document, a rare piece in which Star Trek enthusiasts will be delighted to recognize the theme, albeit deconstructed but perfectly recognizable.
So, don’t miss out on this album – a beautiful sonic curiosity that I can only recommend to you.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, August 8th 2023
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