Vinyl Vault — Ben Webster, “Soulville”

One of the biggest, phattest tenor saxophone sounds of the 20th Century came out of Ben Webster. On the next Vinyl Vault, we’ll hear some tracks recorded at his peak in 1957 from his album “Soulville,” released on the Verve Label.

“Soulville” is a 1980 reissue of recordings from October 15, 1957, in Los Angeles featuring the Oscar Peterson Trio. Besides Peterson on piano, Herb Ellis was on guitar and Ray Brown played bass. They were joined by Stan Levey on drums.

The album’s title track is nearly eight minutes long and provides ample opportunity for Webster to stretch out and demonstrate his unique, powerful voice in this bluesy composition. “Late Date” picks up the pace and shows Webster at his muscular best. “Lover Come Back to Me,” with Webster’s mischievous playing shows yet another side of the great tenor player.

Webster may be somewhat overlooked in the 21st Century, but you can hear him at his best on the next Vinyl Vault, on Tuesday, July 9 at 8:30 p.m. on KUVO JAZZ.

Stay connected to KUVO’s programs and our community! Sign up for the Oasis E-News today!