American tenor saxophonist and prolific session musician, a leading voice in contemporary jazz and fusion, known for technical mastery and a distinctive tone; died in 2007.

Widely recognized for technical mastery and an immediately identifiable instrumental voice; prolific session musician appearing on dozens of records; member of or associated with Steps Ahead; used tenor saxophone and EVI on recordings; Pilgrimage was recorded while he was ill and released after his death. Collaborators cited in the reviews include Pat Metheny, Jack DeJohnette, Charlie Haden, Kenny Kirkland, Dave Holland, McCoy Tyner, Joey Calderazzo, Jeff 'Tain' Watts, Don Alias and others.

DeBaser reviews present Michael Brecker as a technically superb, instantly recognizable tenor saxophonist and prolific session player. His albums Pilgrimage, Tales From the Hudson and Two Blocks From The Edge are highlighted for composition, ensemble interplay and strong collaborators. Pilgrimage is described as a final, stylistic testament recorded during his illness. Reviews balance admiration for mastery with occasional critique of commercial projects.

For:Jazz listeners, saxophone students, fans of contemporary and fusion jazz

 "Technically, he seems to be the most prepared of all. Moreover, he possesses the quality of the great saxophonists of the past: you recognize him after two notes. However, his way of playing is extremely linear, offering little to mental adventure."

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 The Testament.

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 Michael Brecker is one of the few musicians whose instrumental voice you can recognize immediately, both for the peculiar tone and the unique phrasings and patterns used.

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