All the titles in the Book-series are great and this one is no exception. The band on this is exceptional, with Ervin joined by Jaki Byard, Richard Davis and Alan Dawson. They play in total harmony throughout and the result is brilliant music played with fire and soul. Richard Davis’ work on the double bass is lovely and he really shows here how creative he was in his approach. Jaki Byard is one of my favorite pianists and his style makes it’s presence known in a beautiful way. Alan Dawson’s drumming is distinct, technical and tasteful. Very underrated drummer. A clear favorite of mine.
Booker Ervin was a great tenor player and his style was very unique and instantly recognizable. I have managed to collect a few of his titles on Prestige and I’m looking for more. Some of them are not easy to find but I hope to run across a few of the ones I’m missing in the future. Happy to have been able to find the ones I have though. These are albums that always feel fresh and gives me something new each time I put them on the turntable.
Do you have a favorite Ervin album? Please share. Cheers!