Cliff Jordan’s Magnum Opus.
For me, this Cliff Jordan album, recorded in 1973, is his best. Historically I’ve listened to his stuff from the 50’s and early 60’s. That stuff is undoubtedly great, but I prefer this approach for sure. The music is amazing and very varied. You get plenty of the things that makes jazz such a wonderful art form. The musicianship is outstanding, and no wonder with the cast of players on this one. We have Jordan on tenor sax, Stanley Cowell or Cedar Walton on piano, Bill Lee or Sam Jones on double bass and Billy Higgins on drums. They just breeze through these tunes like it was the easiest thing on earth, but this is quite intricate music performed with such a delicate touch.
A lovely recording and this original pressing sounds sublime. Top notch quality pressing. The condition of the vinyl is great, and although the cover has some flaws I’m very happy with this copy. Seems quite difficult to find. It’s very desirable. This was one of the top titles on my wish list since acquiring the stereo setup.
Favorite picks right now are “Powerful Paul Robeson”, “Prayer to the People”, “John Coltrane” and “Shoulders”.
I suppose most cats have heard this one, but if you haven’t, remedy that posthaste. Highly, highly recommended.