Exodus To Jazz – EDDIE HARRIS****

Exodus/Alicia/Gone Home/ATC/AM Blues/Little Girl Blue/Velocity/WP

Exodus To Jazz was a somewhat unlikely top selling album by jazz saxophonist Eddie Harris, which featured his soulful version of the Exodus movie theme. (US:2)

“Eddie Harris' Exodus To Jazz became the first jazz album ever to be certified gold. Sales exceeded one million dollars, an astounding and unprecedented phenomenon for a jazz artist. A jazz record that sold an unheard of two million copies.”

“Eddie's soulful version of Exodus was apparently so popular in 1961 that it inspired a critical backlash. He can't be blamed for trying to make a buck, but this is real jazz by any standard. He's less funky here than he got later in his career, playing more in cool-toned bop mode. A nice mix of ballads and faster swinging jams.”

“This LP is a good one to play for your friends that might not be into jazz. It really captures the essence of bop without being too 'out there'. That's why I call it 'soft bop'. Yet that doesn't mean is doesn't swing. It does. I think the real treasure here is the beautiful sound and presentation of Harris and his generous sharing of the musical load with the other musicians.”

“Eddie Harris has his own particular sound, smooth as silk and, more importantly, the passion to play the saxophone. This is the music to warm up on a cold rainy day.”

“Exodus To Jazz remains an exemplary and stellar acoustic album showcasing Eddie Harris’ talent as a jazz tenor saxophonist, and his 1960s penchant for original interpretations and arrangements.”

“Eddie Harris is amazingly original, funky and elegant at the same time, screaming and whispering at once, so much intent behind every note, and everything flowing positively forward.”

“An all-embracing collection of grooves, each choice is solid gold, featuring music that has stood the test of time and maintains a respectable place in the annals of jazz. It captures Eddie Harris' unique early acoustic tenor intonation and expression, which captivated the attention of countless listeners.”