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!

After spending most of the ’50s away from the scene, saxophonist Dexter Gordon entered the recording studio in 1961 to create what became the first in a series of seven incredible albums for Blue Note. On Doin’ Allright he proved why the world needed him back. Gordon assuredly embraced the inventive melodicism of Lester Young with the striking harmonies of Charlie Parker. He also mastered the art of quoting other musical passages within a cogent solo. As the reissue proves, the results are timeless, especially on such achingly beautiful ballads as “You’ve Changed.” Although Gordon used a group of studio musicians—rather than his own band—on this date everybody sounds remarkably cohesive. This session also featured then 23-year-old whiz-kid trumpeter Freddie Hubbard. –Aaron Cohen

Rappamelo’s favorite track: