Description

Two never-before-released complete sets by the unforgettable Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers are presented here. The first, recorded in 1963 at the iconic Olympia Theatre in Paris, features a stellar lineup: Freddie Hubbard on trumpet, Curtis Fuller on trombone, Wayne Shorter on tenor saxophone, Cedar Walton on piano, Reggie Workman on bass, and the leader himself on drums. Highlights include an impressive arrangement of Henry Mancini’s “Moon River” and an extraordinary take on Duke Ellington’s “Caravan.” The second set, taped in 1968 at the equally renowned Salle Pleyel, also in Paris, finds Blakey joined by Bill Hardman on trumpet, Julian Priester on trombone, Billy Harper on tenor saxophone, Ronnie Mathews on piano, and Lawrence Evans on bass. Among the many highlights are an extended performance of the rarely heard “Blues for Eros” and a dazzling version of Bobby Timmons’ “Moanin’.” Transferred from the original tape reels preserved at INA and restored and mastered by Matthew Lutthans at The Mastering Lab, this limited-edition 180-gram 2-LP set includes an extensive insert featuring rare photographs and specially prepared liner notes.