Lou Donaldson
Alto Sax Solo on
Mayreh

About

Lou Donaldson's alto sax solo is the 2nd of 4 on this recording, spanning three choruses at approximately 277 BPM. Set within a swinging rhythmic framework, the 32-bar AA' form and the key of F, the solo tests the player's command at high velocity. Built on the chord changes of "All God's Chillun Got Rhythm," the harmonic foundation is a familiar one in the jazz repertoire, inviting inventive melodic departures. Positioned between Clifford Brown and Horace Silver, Donaldson bridges the conversation between the two. Lou Donaldson matches the intensity with three alto saxophone choruses of his own, while Silver's three piano choruses crackle with rhythmic vitality.

Lou Donaldson was 27 to 28 years old at the time.