everybodydigs# is a series of posts about Jazz, Funk, Soul & R’n’b albums released from the 20s to the 90s, you can read a brief description/review and listen to a small preview (when it’s possible). everybodydigs# is like when someone tells you “hey you should listen to this album!” and nothing less, enjoy!

This is one of the best albums by Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, performed by one of his most star studded lineups. Performing infront of Blakey’s explosive drumming is Wayne Shorter on tenor, Lee Morgan on trumpet, Bobby Timmons on piano, and Jymie Merritt on bass. Most of the tracks were penned by Wayne Shorter or Lee Morgan and all feature high energy performances, especially by Wayne Shorter. His tenor is on fire as he delivers one knock out solo after another. His solo and his exchange with Lee Morgan on “El Toro” as well as his solo on the bonus track “Uptight” are stand outs. The entire group shows it’s soft touch on the one slow number, the bonus track “Pisces”. Blakey’s extended drum piece, “The Freedom Rider” gives the master plenty of room to stretch out and flex his considerable skill as one of Jazz’s all time great drummers. This is an exciting, hard swinging set of classic hard bop, and is easliy recommended.

Rappamelo’s favorite track: