First Place Again
First Place Again
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Format: CD / Album

Our Take
Our Take
Paul Desmond's latest album, "First Place Again," brings a mellow, smooth sound that is sure to transport listeners to a smoky jazz club in the 1960s. Desmond's iconic saxophone playing shines throughout the album, demonstrating why he is considered one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.
The opening track, "Take Ten," sets the tone for the album with its laid-back groove and dreamy melody. Desmond's impeccable phrasing and tone are on full display here, reminding us why he is known as the "cool school" of jazz saxophone.
Tracks like "Alone Together" and "Bossa Antigua" show Desmond's versatility as a musician, blending elements of bossa nova and traditional jazz seamlessly. His ability to create intricate melodies while maintaining a relaxed feel is truly something to behold.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Emily," a beautiful ballad that showcases Desmond's emotive playing style. The way he weaves in and out of the melody is both captivating and enchanting, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
Overall, "First Place Again" is a testament to Paul Desmond's incredible talent and legacy in the world of jazz music. With its timeless sound and expertly crafted compositions, this album is a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast. Paul Desmond may have taken first place again, but in our hearts, he's always number one.
Track Listing
Track Listing
1. I Get a Kick Out of You
2. For All We Know
3. Two Degrees East, Three Degrees West
4. Greensleeves
5. You Go to My Head
6. East of the Sun
7. Time After Time
8. Susie
9. Out of Nowhere
10. The One I Love Belongs to Somebody Else
11. Polka Dots and Moonbeams
12. Samba De Orfeu
13. Poor Butterfly
Delivery & Returns
Delivery & Returns
Delivery
- FREE UK delivery on orders over £20.
- Orders under £20 - £2.99 Postage Fee.
- Next Day Delivery and International Shipping Options Available.
When Will My Order Arrive?
- Usually dispatched within 24 hours.
- Standard Delivery is a Royal Mail Tracked 48 Service and usually arrives within 2-3 working days, including Saturdays.
- Express Delivery is either Royal Mail Tracked 24, or DPD service, for delivery within 24 hours.
- Order before 2pm for next day delivery.
- We’ll aim to dispatch pre-orders so that you receive them on the release date.
- For orders back in stock soon, we expect to receive more stock within a week and will dispatch your order as soon as the stock has arrived.
Returns
- We’re happy to accept returns for unwanted items provided that they’re returned within 14 days of receipt, unopened, unused and in perfect condition.
About the artist
Paul Desmond
Paul Desmond was the kind of musician who could make a saxophone sing like a graceful swan gliding across a serene lake. Known primarily for his silky smooth tone and impeccable improvisational skills, Desmond was a key figure in the development of cool jazz in the 1950s and 60s. Born in San Francisco in 1924, Desmond began playing the saxophone at a young age and quickly established himself as a virtuoso of the instrument. He rose to fame as a member of the Dave Brubeck Quartet, where his iconic solos on tracks like "Take Five" and "Blue Rondo a la Turk" helped to define the sound of the group. Desmond's playing was characterized by its lyrical beauty and effortless coolness. He had a way of phrasing his melodies that was both sophisticated and accessible, making his music appealing to jazz aficionados and casual listeners alike. Despite his undeniable talent, Desmond was known for his laid-back persona and quirky sense of humour. He was famous for his love of puns and wordplay, often incorporating them into his song titles and album names. In addition to his work with the Dave Brubeck Quartet, Desmond also had a successful solo career, releasing a number of critically acclaimed albums. His collaborations with artists like Gerry Mulligan, Jim Hall, and Chet Baker further solidified his reputation as one of the jazz greats. Tragically, Desmond's life was cut short in 1977 when he passed away from lung cancer at the age of 52. However, his legacy lives on through his timeless music, which continues to captivate audiences around the world. Paul Desmond may be gone, but his music will always be a source of joy and inspiration for generations to come.
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