Anthony Ortega - New Dance! (1967/2015) [DSD128]

"Looking for great lost legends of the jazz world? Look no further. Anthony Ortega may be the best unknown jazzman out there. Possessed of a startling, almost entirely self-taught alto jazz sax style that is virtuoso yet accessible, simple yet sophisticated, earthy yet spiritual, subtle yet declamatory, Ortega easily falls into the category of the criminally neglected. I would say he is certainly among the most important unheard jazzmen ever." – Jan P. Dennis, Review
A musical wonder, Anthony was born of Mexican-American parents, and embodies all that came from the dark corridors of the underground jazz scene of 1950’s and 1960’s Los Angeles. Ortega is a soaring, free-spirited, and wholly spontaneous jazz soloist, as can be heard in this performance. His gorgeous, golden tone is reminiscent of older saxophone players, yet his playing also points ahead to the avant in jazz. From the gorgeous lament of the tune, “Sentimentalize” to the brilliantly conceived and haunting, “Shadow Of Your Smile,” this is a captivating session that only an unbridled performance such as this can generate.