Red Rodney Featuring Ira Sullivan - Alive In New York

Review by Luis Fornés

Alive In New York by Red Rodney Featuring Ira Sullivan is a jazz album that showcases the impressive talents of two legendary musicians. The album was recorded live at the Village Vanguard in New York City in 1980 and captures the energy and excitement of a live performance.

Red Rodney, a trumpeter, and Ira Sullivan, a multi-instrumentalist, are both virtuosic players, and they complement each other perfectly on this album. The duo is joined by a talented rhythm section, including pianist Garry Dial, bassist Jay Anderson, and drummer Tom Whaley, who provide a solid foundation for the improvisational flights of the two lead players.

The album opens with "Bird Lives," a tribute to the late, great jazz saxophonist Charlie Parker. The tune features some stunning solos by Rodney and Sullivan, who both pay homage to Parker's legacy while also putting their own stamp on the music. Other highlights include "Stella By Starlight," a beautiful ballad that showcases Sullivan's lyrical playing, and "All The Things You Are," a classic tune that provides a platform for some impressive improvisation by the entire band.

Summary by Luis Fornés

Alive In New York is a must-have for anyone who loves jazz. It's a thrilling live recording that captures the magic of a great performance, and it features two of the greatest jazz musicians of all time at the height of their powers. Highly recommended.