Eric Alexander Quartet Lazy Afternoon: Gentle Ballads IV

Fourth Entry in Renowned Gentle Ballads Series on 180g Vinyl!
Lazy Afternoon: Gentle Ballads IV is the fourth in the renowned Gentle Ballads series. Like the earlier Gentle Ballads, Gentle Ballads II and Gentle Ballads III, this album is a collection of beautiful ballads that showcases the brawny and powerful Alexander's gentle and lyrical side.
Alexander's maturity as a musician is clearly reflected in his ballad playing. His big tone, his ability to express small nuances, and his muscular style free of cheap sentimentality combine to create stunning effects, elevating this album's status from merely good to one of a modern masterpiece.
Alexander and co. avoids uniformity by playing aggressively in some of their solos. The song selections are also more varied than in the past and includes lesser-known gems like "Feelin' Good," "Slow Hot Wind" as well as jazz musicians' originals such as Cedar Walton's "When Love Was New" and Johnny Griffin's "When We Were One." Highly recommended!
Tenor saxophonist Eric Alexander is joined by Mike LeDonne on piano, John Webber on bass and Joe Farnsworth on drums. The recording was made on August 12, 2008 at Avatar Studio, New York.
Venus LPs are pressed only once. After the first edition has been sold out, the titles will be removed from the catalogue. Collectors should therefore consider buying in good time.
Alexander is at his emotional peak...This is another superb outing by Eric Alexander. - Ken Dryden, AllMusic.com

Features:

• 180g Vinyl
• Mixed and Mastered by Tetsuo Hara
• Venus Hyper Magnum Sound Direct Mix Stereo
• OBI Strip
• Made in Japan

Musicians:

• Eric Alexander, tenor sax
• Mike LeDonne, piano
• John Webber, bass
• Joe Farnsworth, drums

Selections: