Recorded a year before San Francisco's legendary club Keystone Korner (which was open for 11 years) closed, this live set features tenor-saxophonist Harold Land with vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson (who co-led a group with him in the 1970's) and trumpeter Oscar Brashear (who has often teamed up with Land during the past 15 years). With pianist Cedar Walton, bassist Buster Williams and drummer Billy Higgins completing the sextet, it is not surprising that the music is hard bop-oriented and of consistent high quality.
Originally out on Theresa, the Evidence [Bellaphon] CD reissue adds a lengthy version of Harold Land's "Mapenzi" to the original five-song program, all of which are originals by the musicians. Recommended.
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).
