“The Sound Of The Wide Open Spaces!!!!” is an album by James Clay and David “Fathead” Newman, recorded on April 26, 1960, at Reeves Sound Studios, New York, and originally released on Riverside Records (RLP 12-327). The Jazz Workshop Vinyl reissue as a 180-gram audiophile LP (JW-076) revives this record with remastering that highlights the saxophones’ brilliance. The lineup features James Clay (tenor saxophone), David Newman (tenor saxophone, flute), Wynton Kelly (piano), Sam Jones (bass), and Art Taylor (drums). The album includes originals like Wide Open Spaces and standards such as They Can’t Take That Away from Me. The music is hard bop with bluesy soul, with Clay and Newman’s saxophones crafting a powerful, harmonious dialogue, backed by a swinging rhythm section. The Jazz Workshop reissue, limited to 500 copies, is prized for its detailed sound, capturing the session’s energy. “The Sound Of The Wide Open Spaces!!!!” is a vibrant record, emphasizing the Texas jazz spirit.
James Clay (September 8, 1935 – January 1, 1994) was an American tenor saxophonist, a vibrant hard-bop player. Born in Dallas, Texas, he began playing saxophone in his youth, inspired by Lester Young. David “Fathead” Newman (February 24, 1933 – January 20, 2009) was a tenor saxophonist and flautist, renowned for his work with Ray Charles. Born in Corsicana, Texas, he earned the nickname “Fathead” for his playful playing style. Both musicians were part of the Texas jazz scene and collaborated with leading artists in the 1950s. Their 1960 collaboration highlights the robust, bluesy style characteristic of Texas jazz.
TRACKLIST
Side One:
1. Wide Open Spaces (Babs Gonzales) 12:08
2. They Can’t Take That Away From Me (G. & I. Gershwin) 6:26
Side Two:
1. Some Kinda Mean (Keeter Betts) 6:32
2. What’s New? (Haggart-Burke) 5:42 *
3. Figger-ration (Babs Gonzales) 8:45
Personnel:
David Newman (tenor sax), James Clay (tenor sax, flute on *), Wynton Kelly (piano), Sam Jones (bass), Art Taylor (drums).
Recorded at Reeves Sound Studios, New York, on April 26, 1960
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