Jackie McLean – Capuchin Swing (1960) [Analogue Productions 2008] [SACD / Analogue Productions – CBNJ 84038 SA]

Title: Jackie McLean – Capuchin Swing (1960) [Analogue Productions 2008]
Genre: Jazz
Format: SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

One of Jackie McLean’s more underrated albums from a plethora of Blue Note releases, 1960’s Capuchin Swing finds the bebop alto saxophonist in fine form on a mix of covers and originals. While his future fascination with Ornette Coleman’s free-form innovations can be sensed in some of the solos here, the majority of the album is in a classic hard bop vein. Like contemporaries Hank Mobley, Sonny Clark, and Lee Morgan, though, McLean doesn’t just churn out pat jam-session fare, but comes up with consistently provocative charts and solos. Eschewing ballads, McLean focuses on mid- to fast-tempo swingers and blues. Standouts include originals like “Francisco” and “Condition Blue” and choice renditions of “Just for Now” and “Don’t Blame Me.” McLean enlists a sparkling lineup of hard bop stars, including trumpeter Blue Mitchell, pianist Walter Bishop, Jr., bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Art Taylor. Mitchell particularly impresses, matching many of McLean’s own inspired flights with his supple and progressive playing. Along with other fine Blue Note titles like Jackie’s Bag and Bluesnik, Capuchin Swing makes for a great introduction to McLean’s extensive catalog.

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Tracklist:

01. Francisco
02. Just for Now
03. Don’t Blame Me
04. Condition Blue
05. Capuchin Swing
06. On the Lion

Personnel:

Jackie McLean – alto saxophone
Blue Mitchell – trumpet
Walter Bishop, Jr. – piano
Paul Chambers – bass
Art Taylor – drums

Note:

Mastered for this SACD by Mastered by Kevin Gray & Steve Hoffman.

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