Album Info
| Artist: | Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers |
| Album: | Jazz Messengers!!!!! |
| Released: | US, 13 Sept 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Alamode | 6:40 |
| Written-By - Curtis Fuller | ||
| A2 | Invitation | 7:25 |
| Written-By - B. Kaper, P. Webster | ||
| A3 | Circus | 5:12 |
| Written-By - B. Russell, L. Alter | ||
| B1 | You Don't Know What Love Is | 6:55 |
| Written-By - D. Raye, G. de Paul | ||
| B2 | I Hear A Rhapsody | 6:30 |
| Written-By - D. Gasparre, G. Fragos, J. Baker | ||
| B3 | Gee Baby, Ain't I Good To You | 5:00 |
| Written-By - A. Razaf, D. Redman |
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Description
Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers' album "Jazz Messengers!!!!!" is a quintessential example of the hard bop style that the group helped define. Released in 1961 on the Impulse! label, this record captures the energy, sophistication, and soulfulness that made Art Blakey and his ensemble one of the most influential groups in jazz history.
The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Freddie Hubbard on trumpet, Curtis Fuller on trombone, Wayne Shorter on tenor saxophone, Cedar Walton on piano, and Jymie Merritt on bass, with Blakey himself on drums. This particular iteration of the Jazz Messengers is often regarded as one of the strongest, with each member bringing their unique voice to the ensemble while maintaining a cohesive group sound.
"Jazz Messengers!!!!!" opens with "À la Mode", a composition by Curtis Fuller that sets the tone for the album with its infectious groove and intricate interplay between the horns. The track showcases the group's ability to balance structured arrangements with improvisational freedom, a hallmark of the hard bop genre. Wayne Shorter's "Ping Pong" is another standout, featuring complex rhythms and a driving energy that highlights Blakey's dynamic drumming.
One of the most striking aspects of this album is the chemistry between the musicians. Freddie Hubbard's fiery trumpet lines contrast beautifully with Curtis Fuller's warm trombone tones, while Wayne Shorter's tenor saxophone provides a lyrical and adventurous voice. Cedar Walton's piano playing is both supportive and inventive, laying down harmonies that propel the soloists forward. Jymie Merritt's bass anchors the group with a steady yet flexible foundation, and Blakey's drumming is as powerful and expressive as ever, driving the music with his signature combination of precision and passion.
The production quality of "Jazz Messengers!!!!!" is also worth noting. Recorded at the Van Gelder Studio, the album benefits from Rudy Van Gelder's expertise in capturing the nuances of jazz performances. The sound is crisp and clear, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining a sense of balance and cohesion.
"Jazz Messengers!!!!!" is not just a showcase of individual talent but also a testament to the power of collaboration. The album exemplifies the spirit of the Jazz Messengers, a group that served as a training ground for some of the greatest jazz musicians of all time. Art Blakey's leadership and vision are evident throughout, as he creates an environment where each musician can thrive while contributing to the collective sound.
In the broader context of jazz history, "Jazz Messengers!!!!!" holds a special place as a representation of the hard bop movement. The album's blend of blues, gospel, and bebop influences reflects the cultural and musical currents of the time, making it both a product of its era and a timeless work of art.
For anyone looking to explore the music of Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers, "Jazz Messengers!!!!!" is an essential listen. It captures the essence of the group's sound and showcases the talents of some of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century. Whether you're a longtime jazz fan or new to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
