Eric Alexander Quartet - Gentle Ballads 3 (2015) [Hi-Res]

This eagerly awaited Venus release from tenor saxophonist Eric Alexander is the third in the renowned "Gentle Ballads" series. Like the earlier Gentle Ballads and Gentle Ballads II, this album is a collection of beautiful ballads that showcase the brawny and powerful Alexander's gentle and lyrical side.

And what a beautiful performance this is! Alexander's maturity as a musician is clearly reflected in his ballad playing. His big tone, his ability to express small nuances, and his muscular style free of cheap sentimentality combine to create stunning effects, elevating this album's status from merely good to a modern masterpiece.

Few tenor saxophonists, especially among his generation, are brave enough to record an all-ballad album. Alexander has done so three times now, and each time, he has given audiences something to be cherished for years. Highly recommended!