Stan Getz - Cafe Montmartre (2002)

Stan Getz – Café Montmartre is a refined live jazz recording that captures the legendary tenor saxophonist in an intimate and deeply expressive quartet setting. Released in 2002 on EmArcy, the album documents performances that highlight Getz’s lyrical tone, emotional depth, and masterful control of phrasing during his later career period. Joined by pianist Kenny Barron, bassist Rufus Reid, and drummer Victor Lewis, Getz performs in a highly responsive ensemble where subtle interaction and dynamic restraint are central to the musical experience.

The repertoire consists of jazz standards and modern compositions that allow for extended improvisation and expressive exploration. Pieces such as “I Thought About You,” “Soul Eyes,” and “I Remember Clifford” showcase Getz’s ability to transform familiar melodies into deeply personal statements, while longer performances like “I Can’t Get Started” and “First Song (For Ruth)” emphasize gradual development and emotional narrative. The quartet’s communication is fluid and understated, with Barron’s harmonic sophistication and the rhythm section’s sensitive support providing an ideal foundation.

Café Montmartre stands as a poignant example of late-period Stan Getz artistry, emphasizing lyricism, maturity, and the enduring elegance of modern jazz performance.

Tracklist:
1. People Time - 6:10
2. I Thought About You - 8:12
3. Soul Eyes - 7:20
4. I Can't Get Started - 11:13
5. I'm Okay - 5:22
6. Falling In Love - 9:01
7. I Remember Clifford - 8:52
8. Blood Count - 4:05
9. First Song (For Ruth) - 10:03

Personnel:
Stan Getz - tenor saxophone
Kenny Barron - piano
Rufus Reid - double bass
Victor Lewis - drums