Gerald Wilson: Watermelon Man

Track

Watermelon Man

Artist

Gerald Wilson (leader)

CD

The Complete Pacific Jazz Recordings of Gerald Wilson and His Orchestra (Mosaic MD5-198)

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Musicians:

Gerald Wilson (leader), Freddie Hill (trumpet), Curtis Amy (soprano sax), Phil Moore III (piano), Anthony Ortega (piccolo, flute, alto sax), Teddy Edwards (tenor sax),

Melvin Moore, Al Porcino, Jules Chaiken, Nat Meeks (trumpets), John Ewing, Bob Edmondson, Lester Robertson, Fred Murell (trombones), Harold Land (tenor sax), Jack Nimitz (baritone sax), Dennis Budimir (guitar), Buddy Woodson (bass), Mel Lee (drums)

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Composed by Herbie Hancock. Arranged by Gerald Wilson

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Recorded: Los Angeles, December 2, 1965

Albumcovergeraldwilson-completepacificjazzrecordings

Rating: 92/100 (learn more)

Gerald Wilson always included new compositions of artists he respected. His was the first big band besides Duke Ellington's to play "Come Sunday."  "Groovin' High," "Miles" (the correct name of the tune most know as "Milestones"), "So What" and "Freddie Freeloader" were also part of Gerald's book. "Watermelon Man" was Herbie Hancock's crossover Latin/rock hit that quite a few ensembles played, and which Wilson was smart enough to include for younger listeners. Soloists Hill, Amy, Moore, Ortega (on both piccolo and flute) and Edwards really get down and funky.

Reviewer: Jeff Sultanof

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