Japanese audiophile label Venus Records is renowned for their great jazz music, high quality recordings and gorgeous artwork. Founded in 1992 by Tetsuo Hara, who had worked as a producer for RCA Victor, uses a signature mastering process named 'Venus Hyper Magnum Sound', a Direct Mix recording that results in incredible sound quality appreciated by music fans around the world.

• Limited Edition
• LP 180 Gram Audiophile Vinyl
• High Quality Japanese Pressing
• Mixed and Mastered by Tetsuo Hara
• Venus Hyper Magnum Sound Direct Mix Stereo
• Venus Masterpiece Collection
• Includes original OBI Strip
• Deluxe Textured Cover
• Made in Japan

Effectively captures Wilen's final creative spark representing his last recording!

French saxophonist Barney Wilen is one of the most renowned European jazz musicians. Wilen performed with Miles Davis in 1957 on the Ascenseur pour l'echafaud soundtrack. He has also worked with Kenny Clarke and Thelonious Monk on other film soundtracks. During the last 10 or so years of his life, Wilen has a career resurgence thanks in part to his releases on Venus Records.

Passione, recorded in June 1995, was Wilen's last recording as he passed away the following year at age 59. Not showing any indication of his illness, Passione displays Wilen in top form, sounding at ease, inspired, and powerful. One of Italy's most well-known jazz musicians, trumpeter Enrico Rava, joins Wilen to create a very appealing front line.

Wilen is supported by a highly competent rhythm section. The quintet cheerfully swings on "Jitterbug Waltz" and Gerry Mulligan's "Line for Lyons," and displays strong emotion on the gorgeous "Estate" and the title track. The eclectic program also includes Latin and Italian songs. This exceptional album effectively captured Wilen's final creative spark.

Musicians:

Barney Wilen, tenor saxophone, alto saxophone, soprano saxophone
Enrico Rava, trumpet
Alain Jean-Marie, piano
Gilles Naturel, bass
Philippe Soirat, drums

Track Listing:

Side A

1. My Ship
2. Jitterbug Waltz
3. Passione

Side B

4. I Cover The Waterfront
5. Venetian Rumba
6. Estate
7. Line For Lyons

Click here to listen to samples on YouTube.com ♫