At the Jazz Corner of the World V.2
07/05/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This 1959 live recording captures the true essence of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers as an institution that systematically produced dynamic soloists and notable bandleaders throughout its illustrious existence. This band features the 21 year-old Lee Morgan on trumpet, fresh from the Dizzy Gillespie Big Band. Lee's fiery solos depict a desperate urgency, sometimes lending a church-house feeling with his half-valve effects. Hank Mobley makes his statement on the tenor sax with his rhythmic agility and drive, also contributing an original composition, "M & M", an up tempo tune that has become the trademark of the Jazz Messengers. Composer Bobby Timmons, "Moanin', Dis Here, Dat Dere", "So Tired", owns the piano chair by "playing in the pocket" and hitting the mark with his funky chords and aggressive solos. Bassist Jymie Merritt is solid throughout. Between Jymie's pulsating bass lines and Art's sock cymbal, there is never a question as to where the time lies. Finally, there's the leader of the Jazz Messengers, drummer Art Blakey--he's hard not to notice. If Art catches you hiding out on the bandstand, he'll run over you like a steamroller and never look back. One must take note of the inventiveness of his constant cross-rhythms through the blistering tempos that are offered. The selection of tunes include the previously mentioned, M&M by Mobley, "Hi-Fly", a Randy Weston composition, a deceptively laid back tune that is a lesson on how to swing a ballad real hard. Ray Bryant's, "Chicken `An Dumplins", is where the band puts on the pots with some home cookin'. "Art's Revelation" by pianist Gildo Mahones truly tests the stamina of each of the performers. Then there is a nine-minute-plus version of "The Theme", a familiar piece with Messenger fans. This live recording has also documented some of the ambience and the memories of Birdland. For those of us who were there, the jazz world will sorely miss the relaxed atmosphere of this club...hearing the music counterpoint with tinkling glasses, ringing cash registers, applause and laughter. This album has it all. Five Stars!"
Track Listings (6) - Disc #1