Long Tall Dex live at North Sea Jazz is a captivating and energetic concert film that captures the formidable talents of jazz tenor saxophonist Dexter Gordon and his incredible bandmates in a live performance at the historic North Sea Jazz Festival. From the opening notes of the first song, the audience is immediately captivated by Gordon's effortless skill on the saxophone, as he effortlessly weaves complex melodies that dance and swirl around the room. His bandmates, including Bud Johnson, Illinois Jacquet, and Arnett Cobb, prove to be equally skilled musicians, playing with a virtuosity and passion that is truly awe-inspiring.
Throughout the concert, the band tackles a range of jazz standards, delivering exciting and dynamic interpretations of classics like "One O'Clock Jump" and "Stella by Starlight". Each song is played with the kind of intensity and passion that only comes from years of experience and a deep love of the music.
One of the band's standout performances comes in the form of Gordon's ode to his mentor, the iconic saxophonist Lester Young. In this piece, titled "Fried Bananas", Gordon channels Young's legendary style, playing with a light, airy touch that perfectly captures the master's one-of-a-kind sound.
The concert also features a number of stunning solo performances, with each member of the band given a chance to shine. Bud Johnson delivers a virtuosic performance on the alto saxophone, weaving intricate melodies that leave the audience breathless. Illinois Jacquet, meanwhile, delivers a deeply soulful performance on the tenor saxophone, his powerful, bluesy style filling the room with raw emotion.
Perhaps the most striking aspect of Long Tall Dex live at North Sea Jazz, however, is the incredible chemistry between the band members. Throughout the concert, each musician plays off of the others, creating a tight, cohesive sound that is simply mesmerizing to witness.
The audience is also treated to a glimpse of Gordon's unique personality, as he engages with the crowd between songs, joking and chatting with them in his warm, gravelly voice. His easy charm and infectious charisma only add to the already electrifying energy of the concert.
Overall, Long Tall Dex live at North Sea Jazz is a remarkable testament to the incredible talents of Dexter Gordon and his bandmates. With its exceptional performances, wide-ranging repertoire, and infectious energy, this concert film is a must-see for any jazz lover.
Long Tall Dex live at North Sea Jazz is a 1979 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 6 minutes.
