When 24-year-old Joshua Redman won the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition in 1991, the jazz world took notice. By 1993, with two albums already under his belt, Redman entered the studio to record Wish — a record that would become a landmark of 1990s acoustic jazz and a defining moment of his early career.
Wish was a commercial and critical smash:
More importantly, Wish became the blueprint for 1990s acoustic jazz. It proved that a young Black musician could honor Charlie Parker and John Coltrane while engaging with the textures of Pat Metheny’s ECM-style production. Today, Redman is the artistic director of SFJAZZ, and this album remains his most requested work.
On streaming services (320kbps MP3 or AAC), Wish sounds pleasant. But with Lossless FLAC (typically 16-bit/44.1kHz CD-quality or higher), the album transforms.
Joshua Redman 's 1993 jazz album is a acclaimed post-bop project featuring a piano-less quartet with Pat Metheny, Charlie Haden, and Billy Higgins, which combines studio recordings from Power Station with live performances at the Village Vanguard. It features varied material, including originals and covers of songs by artists like Stevie Wonder and Eric Clapton, and is often praised for its melodic sensibility and, in some cases, its "inside" post-bop approach.
Wish is not just a record; it is a rite of passage for modern jazz fans. Listening to it in lossless FLAC is the closest you can get to sitting in the control room at Power Station with the red light on.
Whether you are a data hoarder, a jazz purist, or a budding saxophonist trying to transcribe Redman’s flawless lines, seek out the genuine 1993 lossless files. Delete the 128kbps MP3 you downloaded from Limewire in 2004. Your ears, and Charlie Haden’s bass, will thank you.
Final Note: Support the artists. If you love the lossless sound, buy the CD used (cheap!) or purchase the high-resolution download from Qobuz or HDtracks. Then, keep a FLAC archive for your personal server. That is the way of the audiophile.
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It was a crisp autumn evening in 1993, and the city was alive with the sounds of jazz music. Joshua Redman, a young and talented saxophonist, had just released his album "Wish" to critical acclaim. The album, which featured a mix of original compositions and jazz standards, showcased Redman's unique blend of traditional and modern jazz.
As he took the stage at the prestigious Yoshi's Jazz Club in Oakland, California, Redman was filled with a sense of excitement and nervousness. He was about to perform with his quartet, which included pianist Brad Mehldau, bassist Larry Grenadier, and drummer Brian Blade.
The crowd was buzzing with anticipation as Redman began to play, his smooth and soulful saxophone melodies filling the room. The music was a fusion of jazz, blues, and folk, with intricate improvisations and complex harmonies.
One of the standout tracks from the album, "Elvis", was a funky and upbeat tune that got the crowd moving. Redman's playing was effortless, with a mastery of tone and phrasing that belied his young age.
As the night wore on, the quartet delved deeper into the album, playing tracks like "Be My Valentine" and "Ugetsu". The music was a journey through different moods and emotions, from the melancholic to the exuberant.
The sound quality of the performance was exceptional, with every note and nuance captured in stunning clarity. It was as if the listener had been transported to the club itself, surrounded by the music and the energy of the live performance.
Years later, the album "Wish" would be remembered as a landmark recording in Redman's career, a testament to his skill and creativity as a musician. And for those who had been lucky enough to experience it live, the memory of that magical night in 1993 would stay with them forever.
The album has since been released in a lossless FLAC format, allowing listeners to experience the music in its purest form, with every detail and subtlety preserved. For those who appreciate the nuances of jazz and the artistry of Joshua Redman, "Wish" remains a timeless classic, a must-listen for anyone who loves the genre.
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Joshua Redman ’s 1993 album Wish is a landmark in modern jazz, capturing the young saxophonist at a pivotal moment of artistic expansion alongside three established masters. Released just months after his self-titled debut, Wish moved Redman away from a purely melodic focus toward a more adventurous, "Ornette-thology" inspired sound. Album Overview & Personnel
The album features a piano-less quartet of world-class collaborators: Joshua Redman: Tenor saxophone Pat Metheny: Guitar Charlie Haden: Bass Billy Higgins: Drums
Metheny, Haden, and Higgins had previously recorded as a trio (Rejoicing, 1983), and Haden and Higgins were both key members of Ornette Coleman's legendary quartet. Redman’s ability to lead this seasoned group was seen as a testament to his rapid musical maturity. Key Tracks & Musical Style
"Turnaround": The album opens with this Ornette Coleman composition, immediately establishing a bold, "inside-outside" post-bop tone.
Genre-Bending Covers: Redman is noted for his jazz interpretations of rock and R&B, such as Stevie Wonder's "Make Sure You're Sure" and Eric Clapton’s "Tears in Heaven". Critics describe his take on "Tears in Heaven" as "smooth jazz with substance".
Live Recordings: The final two tracks, "Wish" and "Blues for Pat," were recorded live at the Village Vanguard in NYC, showcasing the group's "sensational live chemistry". Critical Perspective
Reviewers from Something Else Reviews highlight how the backing group "roughed up" Redman’s initial melodicism, pushing him to new plateaus. While AllMusic notes it isn't revolutionary, they praise it as an "appealing" work from an improviser willing to explore diverse musical situations. Buying & Listening Options Joshua Redman - Wish -1993- -Lossless FLAC-
For collectors seeking physical copies, you can find the original 1993 CD at retailers like Target or through specialized music sellers on eBay. The album is also available for high-quality streaming on platforms like Apple Music.
A Masterclass in Modern Post-Bop: Revisiting Joshua Redman’s Wish (1993)
In the early 1990s, the jazz world was searching for a new torchbearer—someone who could honor the rigorous traditions of the past while injecting the genre with contemporary energy. Enter Joshua Redman. While his self-titled debut earlier in 1993 turned heads, it was his sophomore effort, Wish, that solidified his status as a generational talent.
For audiophiles and jazz purists, experiencing this album in Lossless FLAC is not just a preference; it is a necessity to capture the nuanced interplay of one of the greatest quartets ever assembled. The Lineup: A "Supergroup" Before the Fame
The brilliance of Wish lies largely in its personnel. Redman, only 24 at the time, surrounded himself with three undisputed titans of the genre:
Pat Metheny (Guitar): Providing lush textures and melodic sophistication.
Charlie Haden (Bass): Offering his signature woody, deep-rooted pulse.
Billy Higgins (Drums): Bringing a legendary sense of swing and "dance" to the kit.
This wasn't just a young saxophonist being "backed" by legends; it was a collaborative conversation. The chemistry between Redman and Metheny, in particular, created a harmonic playground that felt both avant-garde and deeply accessible. The Tracklist: Diversity in Composition
Wish is remarkably eclectic. It moves effortlessly between soulful ballads, hard-swinging bop, and even a nod to contemporary rock.
"Turnaround": An Ornette Coleman classic that showcases the group's ability to navigate "free" blues with structure.
"Soul Dance": A Redman original that highlights his incredible rhythmic pocket and soulful phrasing.
"Moose the Mooche": A high-speed tribute to Charlie Parker where Redman proves his technical facility on the tenor.
"Tears in Heaven": Perhaps the most surprising inclusion. Redman takes the Eric Clapton ballad and transforms it into a haunting, melodic masterpiece, proving that jazz can reclaim popular song with dignity. Why "Lossless FLAC" Matters for this Album
Jazz is a genre of "air" and "space." In a standard MP3, the subtle decay of Pat Metheny’s hollow-body guitar or the delicate shimmer of Billy Higgins’ ride cymbal is often compressed into a flat, metallic hiss.
Listening to Wish in Lossless FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) preserves the full dynamic range of the original 1993 recording sessions. You can hear:
The Timbre: The "reedy" texture of Redman’s tenor sax, from the breathy low notes to the piercing altissimo.
The Soundstage: The physical placement of the musicians. In a high-quality FLAC rip, you can "feel" Charlie Haden’s bass centered and grounded, with the drums panned to create a lifelike room feel.
Micro-dynamics: The softest ghost notes on the snare drum and the subtle finger slides on Metheny's fretboard that add human emotion to the performance. Legacy and Impact
Wish remains a high-water mark for 90s jazz. It avoided the "Young Lions" trap of merely mimicking the 1950s, instead opting for a sound that felt organic and forward-thinking. It proved that Joshua Redman wasn't just the son of the great Dewey Redman—he was a singular voice capable of leading the masters.
For those looking to build a definitive digital jazz library, a Lossless FLAC copy of Wish is a foundational requirement. It is an album that demands—and rewards—undivided attention.
Released in 1993, Wish by tenor saxophonist Joshua Redman is widely considered the album that solidified his status as a "young lion" of modern jazz. It is his second outing as a leader and features a high-caliber, piano-less quartet consisting of jazz icons Pat Metheny (guitar), Charlie Haden (bass), and Billy Higgins (drums). Musical Style & Performance
While the rhythm section of Haden and Higgins (frequent Ornette Coleman collaborators) suggests an avant-garde lean, the album is largely an "inside" post-bop affair that emphasizes lyricism and melody.
Genre-Blending Covers: Redman is praised for his "jazz-noir" interpretation of Stevie Wonder’s "Make Sure You're Sure" and his emotive, pop-jazz take on Eric Clapton’s "Tears in Heaven". When 24-year-old Joshua Redman won the Thelonious Monk
Ensemble Chemistry: The quartet achieves what Redman calls "organic unity," particularly on the Ornette Coleman opener "Turnaround" and the live tracks recorded at the Village Vanguard.
Sound Quality: Listening to this in Lossless FLAC is highly recommended to capture the nuanced textures of Metheny's guitar and the warmth of Haden’s acoustic bass, which are central to the album's intimate atmosphere. Tracklist
The album consists of eight studio recordings and two live performances: Turnaround (Ornette Coleman) Soul Dance (Joshua Redman) Make Sure You're Sure (Stevie Wonder) The Deserving Many (Joshua Redman) We Had a Sister (Pat Metheny) Moose the Mooche (Charlie Parker) Tears in Heaven (Eric Clapton) Whittlin' (Pat Metheny) Wish (Live at Village Vanguard) Blues for Pat (Live at Village Vanguard) Critical Verdict AllMusic Rating: 4.5/5 stars.
The Consensus: Critics view Wish as a "surprisingly mature work" for a young artist. While some "purists" originally critiqued the pop-oriented covers, the album is now celebrated for its accessible yet sophisticated approach to the post-bop revival. joshuaredman.com/wish">Village Vanguard?
Joshua Redman - Wish (1993) - A Jazz Saxophonist's Masterpiece - Lossless FLAC
Introduction
In the realm of jazz, few saxophonists have made a mark as distinctive as Joshua Redman. With a career spanning over three decades, Redman has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, experimenting with various styles and collaborating with some of the most talented musicians in the industry. One of his most celebrated albums, Wish, released in 1993, is a testament to his skill and artistry. In this blog post, we'll dive into the details of this iconic album, exploring its significance, musical elements, and what makes it a standout in Redman's discography.
The Album: Wish (1993)
Wish is Joshua Redman's second studio album, released on September 28, 1993, under the Warner Bros. Records label. The album features eight tracks, each showcasing Redman's mastery of the tenor and soprano saxophones. The record was produced by Brad Mehldau and Joshua Redman, with notable contributions from a talented ensemble of musicians.
Musical Style and Influences
The music on Wish is characterized by a mix of modern jazz, post-bop, and a hint of blues. Redman's playing style, reminiscent of his idol, John Coltrane, is evident throughout the album. The saxophonist's use of intense, spiritually-charged solos and melodic explorations creates a captivating listening experience. The album also features intricate ensemble playing, with the rhythm section providing a rich, dynamic foundation for the solos.
Tracklist
Notable Musicians
Lossless FLAC: Audio Quality and Format
For audiophiles and jazz enthusiasts, Wish is available in Lossless FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) format, ensuring that the music is presented in the highest possible quality. FLAC is a popular format for storing and playing back lossless audio, offering a perfect solution for those seeking to experience their music with uncompromised fidelity.
Key Features of Lossless FLAC:
Conclusion
Joshua Redman's Wish (1993) is a masterpiece of modern jazz, showcasing the saxophonist's technical mastery and emotional depth. The album's diverse range of styles, intricate ensemble playing, and memorable solos make it a standout in Redman's discography. With its availability in Lossless FLAC format, audiophiles and jazz enthusiasts can indulge in the music with uncompromised audio quality. If you're looking to explore the world of jazz or simply appreciate exceptional musicianship, Wish is an essential listen.
Download or Stream
You can find Wish on various music streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. For those who prefer to own their music, the album is also available for download in Lossless FLAC format from online music stores like HDtracks or JazzDisc.
About Joshua Redman
Joshua Redman is an American jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader. Born on February 14, 1969, in Berkeley, California, Redman comes from a musical family; his father, Dewey Redman, was a renowned jazz saxophonist. Throughout his career, Joshua Redman has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, collaborated with jazz legends, and performed at festivals and concerts worldwide.
Final Recommendation
If you're a fan of jazz, saxophone, or just great music, Wish by Joshua Redman is a must-listen. Its rich musical textures, memorable melodies, and exceptional performances make it a timeless classic in the world of jazz. Experience the album in its full glory with Lossless FLAC, and let the music transport you to a world of sonic bliss. More importantly, Wish became the blueprint for 1990s
Released in 1993, is the acclaimed second studio album by jazz saxophonist Joshua Redman
. It is widely celebrated for its "dream band" lineup, featuring Redman alongside three jazz icons: guitarist Pat Metheny Charlie Haden , and drummer Billy Higgins Album Overview
The record is a "pianoless quartet" date that balances high-energy post-bop with lyrical, introspective ballads. While Haden and Higgins were famed for their avant-garde work with Ornette Coleman,
is largely an accessible, "inside" record that showcases Redman's melodic maturity and his ability to reinterpret pop and R&B classics through a jazz lens. Tracklist & Key Highlights
The album features a mix of original compositions, jazz standards, and contemporary covers: "Turnaround" : A brisk opener composed by Ornette Coleman. "Soul Dance"
: One of Redman's most famous early originals, a "lightly floating waltz". "Tears in Heaven"
: A moving pop-jazz interpretation of the Eric Clapton ballad. "Make Sure You're Sure" : A "haunting jazz-noir" take on the Stevie Wonder song. "Wish" (Live) : The title track, recorded live at New York’s legendary Village Vanguard "Blues for Pat" (Live)
: A lengthy 12-minute tribute to Metheny, composed by Charlie Haden. Full Personnel Joshua Redman : Tenor Saxophone Pat Metheny Charlie Haden Billy Higgins Why Lossless FLAC? For an album of this caliber, a Lossless FLAC
format is ideal. The recording captures "exquisite passion and sensitivity," particularly in the live tracks where the "organic unity" of the quartet and the intimate atmosphere of the Village Vanguard are best preserved by high-fidelity audio. Further Exploration
Learn more about the album's history and critical reception on the Official Joshua Redman Website
Explore a detailed track-by-track breakdown and technical credits at
Read a retrospective review on how this album shifted Redman's musical direction at Something Else! Reviews View the album's chart history and professional ratings on Pat Metheny's guitar style
on this specific record, or perhaps a comparison to Redman's self-titled debut from the same year?
Released in 1993, Wish is widely considered the album that solidified Joshua Redman’s position as a heavyweight in modern jazz. While many "young lion" debut albums of that era leaned heavily on tradition, Wish took a bold, eclectic direction by pairing the 24-year-old saxophonist with a "dream team" of veterans. The "Wish" Lineup
Redman’s sophomore effort featured a piano-less quartet composed of three of his personal musical idols: Pat Metheny
(Guitar): Brought a lyrical, atmospheric texture that defined the album's sound. Charlie Haden (Double Bass): Provided a deep, grounded foundation. Billy Higgins (Drums): Added his signature "dancing" rhythmic energy.
Notably, Haden and Higgins were both alumni of Ornette Coleman’s legendary quartet, which gave the album a subtle "Ornette-ish" exploratory edge, despite remaining mostly accessible post-bop. Interesting Album Facts
Pop-to-Jazz Transformations: The album is famous for Redman’s ability to take non-jazz songs and turn them into "moving pop-jazz". This includes haunting versions of Eric Clapton’s "Tears in Heaven" and Stevie Wonder’s "Make Sure You’re Sure". A "Family" Connection: Pat Metheny
had previously recorded with Joshua’s father, Dewey Redman, on the 1980 album 80/81. Wish essentially saw Metheny moving from the father’s generation to the son’s.
The Title Track: The song "Wish" was originally recorded for Redman's self-titled debut earlier that same year. The version on this album is a live performance captured at the Village Vanguard.
Commercial Success: Wish reached #1 on the Billboard Top Jazz Albums chart and, combined with his debut, sold over 250,000 copies—a massive feat for a jazz instrumentalist in the early '90s. Wish - Album by Joshua Redman - Apple Music
The funky, odd-meter head. Higgins’ snare drum rim clicks are a percussive delight. The track modulates through several keys, and Haden’s walking bass has a growl that only uncompressed PCM can properly articulate. This is the song that DJs and producers sampled later, and they always sought the lossless source.
The album opens with a tribute to Redman’s harmonic godfather. In Lossless FLAC, Billy Higgins’ cymbal work is revelatory. The high-frequency extension retains the shimmer of his K Zildjian ride without the brick-walled compression found in lossy formats. You can hear the overtone of Metheny’s acoustic guitar resonating against Haden’s bass before Redman enters with a blistering, melodic solo.