| Few musicians can claim the versatility and depth of Bennie Wallace. His recordings as a leader feature an incredibly diverse array of sidemen, including such greats as Tommy Flanagan, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dr. John, Elvin Jones, Dave Holland, and Chick Corea. Tennessee-born Wallace has also been featured in collaborations with various blues and gospel artists, accentuating his Southern roots. His diversity and range have brought him to the attention of major Hollywood studios where he served as a composer and musical director for a number of movies, including the Paul Newman film "Blaze," "White Men Can’t Jump" and "Bull Durham."
"Disorder At The Border" is the result of Wallace’s enduring love for Coleman Hawkins. The album, recorded at the Berlin JazzFest in 2004, presents compositions written by or associated with the late, great Coleman Hawkins who is considered the father of the jazz saxophone. Hawkins was the first major soloist on this instrument, setting technical and formal standards for decades to come. His hard, muscular, earthy sound not only echoes vividly in Wallace's playing, Hawkins' historical recordings have also inspired Anthony Wilson's arrangements for this all-star group of Hawkins celebrators. Bennie Wallace and his friends presented their tribute program also on Hawkins’ 100th birthday on November 21, 2004 at the Jazz Standard in New York. |