Perfect Playlist- Andrew Collins

This is my perfect pre-performance playlist, specifically for a jazz concert. I want to put myself into the right mindset so that I can play my best, with the best sound, style, and soloistic ideas, all while enjoying the performance.

1. "Corner Pocket" by Count Basie, from the album "Basie at Birdland"
This song is considered by many to be the epitome of swing style. This song is always good to give a quick listen to before a concert to really get that style in your head. After all, "It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing!"

2. "Count Bubba's Revenge" by Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band, from the album "The Phat Pack"
This big band song is a good model for recognizing my role within the band. I play the lead alto part, so I need to provide a good example of style for my section and sing out above them. Eric Marienthal, the lead alto player for Gordon Goodwin's band, is great at his role. His style and sound sing out above the section and can always be heard by the listener.

3. "Who's Smoking?" by Paquito D'Rivera, from the album "Who's Smoking?"
A great judge of a musician's ability is their fundamental sound. Paquito has a very modern alto sound that I'm always trying to emulate. As with any art form, the best strategy is to learn by imitating the very best.
4.  "Autumn Leaves" by Cannonball Adderley, from the album "In person"
As far as improv solos go, sound and style are only half the battle. If you don't have ideas for notes to play, then the sound and style will be worthless. This entire album, specifically this song, is full of soloistic ideas that can be used in all sorts of styles.
5. "Move Your Rug" by Jeff Coffin and the Mu'tet, from the album "Jeff Coffin & the Mu'tet - Live!"
The most important part of a performance is having fun while doing it. Jeff Coffin's performances are alive with energy, from the beginning to the end. All the soloists build the energy until it explodes into the last chorus, and finally resolves on some chord with Coffin doing some crazy cadenza. This song helps me remember that I should be having fun while I'm playing like Jeff and his Mu'tet. (But seriously, if you listen to no other songs on this playlist, give this one a listen, and then listen to the entire album. It's so much fun.)

https://play.spotify.com/user/ascollins39/playlist/3a59DPrGYcyeN7v4QwMcxw