Search - Herbie Mann :: Turtle Bay / Discotheque

Herbie Mann's Turtle Bay one of all time best

P. Hildahl | 08/25/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have been looking for Turtle Bay on CD for a long time. I no longer have turntable so cannot play the album I have owned for years. This album is one of my all time favourite easy listening recordings, so am delighted to be able to play it again. Am not as fond of of the Discotheque recording - find it a bit "harried", but love Turtle Bay."

Great Music From A Great Flutist

Glenn R. Ellison | Pembroke Pines, Florida United States | 09/30/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"One of the most ecclectic musicians of the century, Herbie Mann went from playing straight jazz in the '50's to several musical genres over the following decades. During the early '70's he made some great recordings. Two albums from this period, Turtle Bay and Discoteque are combined for this release. While Discotheque does have some gems, in my opinion Turtle Bay offers the most satisfying listening. High Jack opens Discotheque with vocals by the trio "The Highjackers". This trio featured noted gospel singer Cissy Houston who Herbie showcased the following year on his exceptional album Surprises featuring Cissy Houston. She is also, of course, Whitney's mom. Herbie does a nice job of covering The Carpenter's hit I Won't Last A Day Without You complete with backing trombones on the chorus. One of my favorite tunes on the album is High Above The Andes. Once again there are backing trombones and the album's kickin' rhythm section includes drummer Steve Gadd, percussionist Ralph Macdonald, bassist Tony Levin and keyboardist Pat Rebillot.I guess the reason I rate Turtle Bay a little higher is that each song is great. For instance he does a funky, albeit too short version of Becker & Fagan's Do It Again. I mean, how many flutists would take on Steely Dan and get away with it? From there we go right into the absolutely joyous Now I've Found A Lady. Where on Discotheque the instrumental back up was provided by horns, on Turtle Bay, and especially this particular tune, just the right amount of strings are added. The next tune, Stevie Wonder's Happier Than The Morning Sun features Herbie on the longer, warmer alto flute. This song is so beautiful I get chills listening to it, even after all these years. I could go on but suffice it say, this is a great double CD. Get it and enjoy the funky one with a flute."

Awesome Jazz Artist

Pamela J. Fox | St. Charles, IL United States | 09/02/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Two great albums packaged together! Jazz flutist Herbie Mann explores island rhythms on "Turtle Bay" and disco on "Discotheque". Wonderful instrumentals that are unique and extraordinary."