Album Info
| Artist: | Hank Mobley |
| Album: | No Room For Squares |
| Released: | Worldwide, 20 Oct 2023 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Three Way Split | |
| Written-By - Hank Mobley | ||
| A2 | Carolyn | |
| Written-By - Lee Morgan | ||
| A3 | Up A Step | |
| Written-By - Hank Mobley | ||
| B1 | No Room For Squares | |
| Written-By - Mobley | ||
| B2 | Me 'N You | |
| Written-By - Lee Morgan | ||
| B3 | Old World, New Imports | |
| Written-By - Mobley |
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Description
Hank Mobley's 1963 album No Room for Squares is a quintessential example of his artistry and a standout in the hard bop genre. Released on the iconic Blue Note label, the album showcases Mobley's lyrical tenor saxophone playing, which is both sophisticated and deeply expressive. Known for his ability to craft memorable melodies and his smooth, warm tone, Mobley was often referred to as "the middleweight champion of the tenor saxophone", a nod to his balanced and refined approach.
The album features two separate recording sessions, one from March 7, 1963, and the other from October 2, 1963, with slightly different lineups. The March session includes Donald Byrd on trumpet, Herbie Hancock on piano, Butch Warren on bass, and Philly Joe Jones on drums. The October session features Lee Morgan on trumpet, Andrew Hill on piano, John Ore on bass, and again Philly Joe Jones on drums. This dual-session structure gives the album a unique texture, as the interplay between the musicians varies subtly between the tracks.
The title track, "No Room for Squares", is a lively and engaging piece that highlights Mobley's compositional skills. The tune's catchy melody and driving rhythm set the stage for inspired solos from Mobley and his bandmates. Another standout track is "Me 'n You", a more laid-back number that allows Mobley's warm tone to shine. Throughout the album, Mobley's playing is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, striking a perfect balance between complexity and accessibility.
One of the album's strengths is its variety. Tracks like "Three Way Split" and "Carolyn" showcase different moods and tempos, keeping the listener engaged from start to finish. The musicianship is top-notch, as one would expect from a Blue Note session, and the production quality is excellent, capturing the nuances of each instrument with clarity and depth.
No Room for Squares is often regarded as one of Mobley's finest works, and for good reason. It captures him at a creative peak, surrounded by some of the best musicians of the era. While Mobley may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to jazz are undeniable, and this album is a testament to his talent and vision.
For fans of hard bop or anyone looking to explore Mobley's discography, No Room for Squares is an essential listen. Its blend of memorable compositions, stellar performances, and timeless appeal make it a standout in the jazz canon. Whether you're a longtime jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
