Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

CD-CND-33222

Colour

Colour details

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music US

Limited edition

Release date

2023-12-01

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier US

Redeye

Tax rate US

Sales:8.875

UPC / Barcode

708857332229

Total Cap

Artist

Lee Konitz

Genre US

Jazz

Label US

Candid Records

Lee Konitz was an American jazz saxophonist and composer. Born on October 13, 1927 in Chicago, Illinois, he made a significant impact on the jazz scene until his passing on April 15, 2020 in Greenwich Village, New York City.

Konitz's unique style and improvisational skills set him apart from his contemporaries. He drew inspiration from artists such as *Sonny Stitt*, *Art Pepper*, and *Gerry Mulligan*. His collaborations with musicians like *Warne Marsh*, *Art Farmer*, and *Kenny Dorham* further showcased his versatility.

Throughout his career, Konitz worked with renowned jazz groups including the *Lennie Tristano Sextet* and the *Gerry Mulligan Quartet*. His contributions to albums by iconic figures like *Dexter Gordon*, *Benny Golson*, and *Sonny Rollins* solidified his reputation as a respected musician.

As the title suggests, the recording Tenorlee finds Lee Konitz, the great American saxophonist, playing exclusively on tenor.  It was a spontaneous decision, and a tribute to his dear friend, Lighthouse All-Star saxophonist Richie Kamuca, who had passed away just days before Konitz entered the studio for these sessions.

Konitz classically trained on the clarinet, but switched to jazz saxophone after being enamored by Lester Young.  By 1945 the 18 year old Konitz was performing professionally.  He made a staggering 150 albums as a band leader over the course of his long and storied career.  He played and recorded with everyone from Dave Brubeck, Charles Mingus, Ornette Colman, Elvin Jones, and Gerry Mulligan, to Elvis Costello, Brad Mehldau and Charlie Haden.  Between 1948 and 1950, he was a member of Miles Davis’ group, and participated in the recordings that would eventually be collected and released as Birth of The Cool.  

With a trio featuring Lighthouse All-Star alum Jimmy Rowles on piano and Michael Moore on bass, Kontiz called out old and familiar songs.  The intention was to “let the tunes happen” as only finely tuned jazz musicians of certain experience can.  Of note is “Lady Be Good” which finds Konitz and Rowles quoting Lester Young’s solo from the 1936 recording with Count Basie.  

From 1978, originally on the Choice label, this album has been remastered and is presented here as the artist intended, with its original title, track order and album artwork, for the first time since its original release.

Remastered by Alex McCollough at True East Mastering.  Vinyl cut by Jeff Powell at Take Out Vinyl.

Tenorlee

Music US

Discover Tenorlee by Lee Konitz on Candid Records. This exclusive recording showcases Konitz's talent on the tenor saxophone, paying tribute to his friend Richie Kamuca. Remastered and presented with original artwork, this album is a must-have for jazz enthusiasts.