# Ralph Lalama embodies the best of the jazz sound ideal: Video

- Link: https://jazzblues.eu/2018/01/30/ralph-lalama-embodies-the-best-of-the-jazz-sound-ideal-video/
- Published: 2018-01-30T00:04:17+01:00
- Author: https://JazzBlues.EU

**30.01. – Happy Birthday !!! A solid fixture of the New York jazz scene and respected
world-wide, Ralph Lalama embodies the best of the jazz sound ideal – great time,
great swing, expressed through great melodic ideas. Everything he says and plays
comes out of his deep connection and appreciation for “the Beat.” **

Jazz critic Zan Stewart put it succinctly: “Lalama is a grand, modern-minded storyteller…
a first-class jazz soloist.” He excels in a chord-less trio format with his amazing
command of the harmonic progressions articulated through his horn. But on top of
being a great jazz soloist, Lalama is equally a solid veteran of jazz ensembles 
and orchestras. Over his impressive career starting with Woody Herman, Buddy Rich,
and the Mel Lewis Orchestra – now the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra – he has honed the
craft of sonic blending.

Lalama is a three-time Grammy winner through his work in the Joe Lovano Nonet and
the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. He has nine CDs out as a leader and is on more than
sixty recordings as a sideman. He has received praise from the likes of critics 
Gary Giddins, Stanley Crouch, Ben Ratliff, Ira Gitler and Stuart Troup, among others.
His latest release as a leader is the 2012 “Bop Juice: Ralph Lalama Trio, Live at
Smalls.”

Ralph Lalama’s playing reveals an enormous depth of musical heart and knowledge.
With his muscular, free-wheeling sound and masterful ability to tell a story through
his horn, one understands why he so thoroughly connects with musicians, students
and listeners alike.

**Equipment:** Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone; Buffet Crampon Clarinet; Altus Flute.

![Image result for Ralph Lalama](https://i0.wp.com/i.ytimg.com/vi/naoz_hIaA5s/maxresdefault.
jpg?w=640&ssl=1)

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