Fantastic session by altoist Frank Strozier who is still with us. A cat I haven’t given much attention to before. I’m glad I stumbled upon this album which showcases what a great player and composer he was. I will definitely explore his stuff more in depth.
Never saw this title before, until a couple of weeks ago. Listened a bit on Spotify, got hooked, and jumped on the chance to acquire it. The album has two lineups, a quartet and a sextet. The sextet consists of Strozier on alto, George Coleman on tenor, Pat Patrick on baritone, Chris Anderson on piano, Bill Lee on double bass and Walter Perkins on drums. The quartet has Strozier as the only horn together with the rhythm section.
It’s a beautiful record all the way trough, starting with the bluesy and slow paced Strozier-penned ”Long Night”. ”How Little We Know” comes next which is a medium-tempo tune with a laid back feel. Then it’s time for a waltz and it’s called ”The Need for Love” and it has that swaying feel that the groove of a waltz provides. Love it. ”The Man That Got Away” closes the A side and it is a lovely slow number with a beautiful solo by Strozier at the end.
Side B begins with the calm and soulful ”Happiness Is A Thing Called Joe” which is relaxing and peaceful. Lovely brush work by Perkins. Then we get into the part of the album which I love the most, with three lovely tunes, all penned by Strozier. ”The Crystal Ball” comes first, on which both Strozier and Patrick plays flute. The tune has a slight latin flavor and a wonderful ambiance that is quite unique. Love the incorporation of the two flutes. A favorite. Then we’re off into the smokin’ up-tempo ”Pacemaker”, which features Strozier in full flow with an impressive solo. The kick drum is very present and the double bass has a thick and full sound which makes the tune really take off. Then we have another up-tempo tune which is called ”Just Think It Over” which has a memorable theme to start with and is followed by great horn solos by all to close the album.
This title is already a firm favorite and is highly recommended.