Recorded at the Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey on March 14, 1968.
All of Bobby Hutcherson's late '60s Blue Note dates are excellent examples of superior ensemble interaction coupled with fascinating compositions. 1968's PATTERNS features the vibraphonist leading a quintet capable of tremendous textural changes and near-classical sophistication. The group offers its interpretation of six spellbinding pieces (plus one extra take of the title track), most of which were composed by drummer Joe Chambers. On this must-have session Stanley Cowell (piano), Reggie Workman (bass) and saxophonist James Spaulding (who also adds beautiful colors on flute) round out the group.
Chambers' meandering title track opens the set, with Hutcherson's tasteful rolls supporting Spaulding's lilting flute melody. The harder edge of "A Time To Go" follows. The many dynamic contrasts within the various sections of this piece illustrate the group's tremendous dexterity. Chambers' two ballads, the delicate "Ankara" and the flowing "Irina," are both examples of Hutcherson's graceful touch and Spaulding's pristine flute work. Of special note, Chambers modal "Nocturnal" is a particularly engaging piece featuring an odd time-signature groove grounded by Workman's commanding bass figures. In all, this session demonstrates the epitome of modern chamber jazz before the oncoming fusion era of the '70s.
Recorded at the Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey on March 14, 1968. Originally released on Blue Note (1044). Includes liner notes by Michael Cuscuna.
Reissue producer: Michael Cuscuna.
Personnel:
Bobby Hutcherson (vibraphone) James Spaulding (alto saxophone, flute) Stanley Cowell (piano) Reggie Workman (bass) Joe Chambers (drums).
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