Exploring the Timeless Legacy of West Coast Jazz Albums Recorded at the Historic Lighthouse.
In the heart of Hermosa Beach stands a legendary establishment that has witnessed the evolution of jazz music since the clubs inception in 1949. Originally built as a restaurant in 1934, this venue transformed into The Lighthouse in 1940, later evolving into The Lighthouse Cafe, a renowned jazz club that has hosted some of the most influential musicians of all time.
From the mesmerizing melodies of Art Pepper and Cannonball Adderley to the enchanting sounds of Vince Guaraldi and Denny Zeitlin, The Lighthouse Cafe has been a beacon countless virtuosos, earning its place as a cornerstone of West Coast jazz history.
In its early days, bassist and band leader Howard Rumsey spearheaded the club's jazz movement, forming the iconic Lighthouse All-Stars in 1949 and attracting luminaries Chet Baker, Gerry Mulligan, and Miles Davis to its stage. These jam sessions not only defined the club's identity but also propelled it into the spotlight as a premier destination for jazz enthusiasts.
JAZZ @ THE LIGHTHOUSE
Moreover, The Lighthouse Cafe became a hub for groundbreaking recordings, with esteemed artists such as Lee Morgan, Mose Allison, and Ramsey Lewis immortalizing their performances within its walls. The club's acoustics and intimate atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for legendary albums, showcasing the raw talent and improvisational genius of jazz icons.
As we delve into the archives of The Lighthouse Cafe, we uncover seven must-have albums that encapsulate the essence of this historic landmark. From soulful ballads to exhilarating improvisations, each recording offers a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of jazz history woven within these hallowed halls through time and melody. We celebrate the enduring and continuing legacy of The Lighthouse Cafe Hermosa Beach, California.
The Cannonball Adderley Quintet At the Lighthouse
(Riverside,1960)
Dive right in to the soulful depths of Cannonball Adderley's unforgettable live session At the Lighthouse, captured on his second live album in 1960. This masterpiece of soul-jazz not only showcases Adderley's brilliance but also elevates him beyond the shadows cast by former bandmates John Coltrane and Miles Davis.
At the helm of his ensemble, Adderley's magnetic presence is palpable, with standout performances on tracks like the mesmerizing "Sack O' Woe" and the vibrant "Azule Serape." These compositions not only highlight Adderley's virtuosity but also underscore the collective synergy of his group.
Joining Adderley are stalwarts of the jazz scene: his brother Nat on cornet, the skilled Sam Jones on bass, the dynamic Louis Hayes on drums, and the versatile Victor Feldman on piano, who also contributes as a composer on two of the album's six tracks.
One of the album's distinctive features is Adderley's poignant introductions to each piece, providing listeners with a glimpse into the historical context surrounding the music—a testament to the album's significance beyond its sonic allure.
In 2018, this seminal recording was reintroduced on 180-gram vinyl by the esteemed Jazz Images label, offering a renewed opportunity to appreciate its timeless brilliance. For aficionados and newcomers alike, At the Lighthouse is an essential addition to any discerning record collection, encapsulating the essence of Cannonball Adderley's enduring legacy. The original album cover image was shot on the beach near the club.
Cal Tjader - Cal Pugs In!
(Skye, 1969)
Indulge in true west coast jazz with the captivating rhythms and vibrant energy of Cal Tjader's live album, Cal Plugs In! Recorded at a club frequented by Tjader himself, this electrifying performance showcases his mastery of the fused latin-jazz genre. The album title pays homage to the distinctive sound created by the electric Fender piano and bass featured during the performances on February 20th and 21st, 1969.
Released on the esteemed Skye/Buddah label, Cal Pugs In! boasts a track list of eight songs that perfectly encapsulate Tjader's musical genius. From soulful ballads to upbeat Latin grooves, each track showcases Tjader's virtuosity and improvisational skills.
Despite its relatively short duration of 33 minutes on the original pressing, this live album leaves a lasting impression on listeners, and wanting more of Tjader's captivating melodies and infectious rhythms.
The Ramsey Lewis Trio - Hang On Ramsey!
(Cadet, 1965)
Experience the lively swinging styling of Chicago-born piano virtuoso Ramsey Lewis as he takes the stage for his iconic live album, Hang On Ramsey! Live at the Lighthouse. Recorded during a series of unforgettable performances at the renowned venue from October 14th to the 17th in 1965, this album captures Lewis at the height of his musical prowess.
Released on the Cadet record label in the same year, Hang On Ramsey! follows the success of Lewis' hit album, The In Crowd. Featuring Lewis on piano, alongside Eldee Young on bass and Isaac "Red" Holt on drums, the album comprises nine captivating tracks, including renditions of popular Beatles tunes like "And I Love Her" and "A Hard Day's Night," as well as a dynamic cover of the McCoys' 1965 hit song, "Hang on Sloopy.” It also captures an enthusiastic crowd in a working 1960s jazz club and the occasional cash register bell ringing! An historical audio artifact!
Chet Baker & The Lighthouse All-Stars - Witch Doctor
(Contemporary, 1953)
The infectious rhythms of Chet Baker's Witch Doctor album, captures the essence of West Coast jazz at its finest. Originally recorded live on Sunday, September 13, 1953, this masterpiece remained unreleased on vinyl until its eventual debut in 1985.
Boasting a lineup of esteemed musicians including Russ Freeman on piano, Shelly Manne and Max Roach on drums, and Howard Rumsey leading the Lighthouse All-Stars on bass, the album showcases a mesmerizing blend of hard bop styles.
Featuring five captivating tracks from the second set of three performances that day, Witch Doctor offers a glimpse into the vibrant energy and improvisational prowess of Baker and his ensemble. Although other albums may better spotlight the traditional Lighthouse All-Stars, this recording remains a testament to Baker's enduring legacy and the rich tapestry of West Coast jazz.
Miles Davis and The Lighthouse All-Stars - At Last!
(Contemporary, 1985)
At Last! was recorded on the same day as the Chet Baker Witch Doctor album (September 13, 1953) using primarily the same group of “All-Star” performers including Max Roach on drums, All-Star band leader & bassist Howard Rumsey, and a notable cameo appearance by Chet Baker himself on the track “At Last.” Mirroring the delayed unveiling of Baker's work, Davis' At Last! saw its vinyl debut much later, in 1985 under the Contemporary Records label -reissued in 1990. Characterized by a spontaneous jam session ambiance, Davis' album encapsulates vibrant renditions of timeless compositions by Thelonious Monk and Dizzy Gillespie. The well-recorded virtuoso performances by Roach and pianist Russ Freeman punctuate the album, rendering it indispensable for any devotee of Miles Davis's oeuvre.
Modern Jazz Quartet - Live at the Lighthouse
(Atlantic, 1967)
Revisit the sounds of the Modern Jazz Quartet with their live album, Live at the Lighthouse, recorded in 1967. This seven-song LP, recorded on March 16th and 17th by Wally Heider Studios, captures the essence of the MJQ's East Coast style in a classic West Coast setting.
Released later in the same year by Atlantic Records, Live at the Lighthouse may be considered somewhat obscure, but its impact on jazz aficionados is undeniable. Featuring fresh compositions and inspired improvisations, the album showcases the quartet's signature blend of swing and creativity.
Led by the legendary Milt Jackson on vibraphone and John Lewis on piano, accompanied by Percy Heath on bass and drummer Connie Kay, the MJQ delivers a performance that is both dynamic and soulful. Each track on the album is a testament to the quartet's exceptional musicianship, innovative arrangements, and their ability to push the boundaries of jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, this album promises a rewarding musical journey.
Art Blakey and the New Jazz Messengers – Buttercorn Lady
(Limelight, 1966)
No jazz list would be complete without giving the drummer some. Explore the dynamic rhythms and exceptional talents of jazz legend Art Blakey with Buttercorn Lady, a seminal album from 1966 that showcases Blakey and the New Jazz Messengers at their finest. Recorded during two electrifying performances at the Lighthouse on January 1st and 9th of 1966, this album was released just two months later on Limelight Records.
While Blakey is renowned for his hard bop jazz style, particularly in live recordings from New York City's iconic Birdland club, Buttercorn Lady offers a unique glimpse into a different facet of his artistry. Featuring a stellar lineup including Chuck Mangione on trumpet, Frank Mitchell on tenor saxophone, Reggie Johnson on bass, and the recent addition of Keith Jarrett on piano. Jarrett's masterful performance truly shines on this live set, making Buttercorn Lady a standout among Blakey's recordings.
5 Other Albums LIVE At The Lighthouse!
1. 1951: Art Pepper and Shorty Rogers – Popo (Xanadu, 1978)
2. 1953: Howard Rumsey's Lighthouse All-Stars – Sunday Jazz a la Lighthouse (Vol. 1) (Contemporary)
3. 1962: The Jazz Crusaders – The Jazz Crusaders at the Lighthouse (Pacific Jazz)
4. 1966: Mose Allison – Mose Alive! (Atlantic)
5. 1972: Elvin Jones – Live at the Lighthouse (Blue Note)
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