Jackie McLean
"One Step Beyond"
Blue Note Records April 30, 1963
re-issued 2009
Recently I picked up a few blue note reissues. One being the album named above. I once heard this disc before when I picked up "One Step's" follow up, Destination Out and didn't really pay any attention to it and come to think of it, I don't know why.
Anyway this album is during that fruitful era in the early to mid 60's where Jackie McLean was releasing alot of great material with various line ups that are all classics. At this time, Jackie mentioned he was looking for a new sound. He was heavily influenced by Ornette Coleman around this time and would even get lessons with the Godfather of the Jazz Avant-garde, also having Ornette play trumpet on an album during this era.
Jackie assembled a band of Blue Note alums including: Bobby Hutcherson on vibes, Grachan Moncur III on trombone, Eddie Kahn bass, and Tony Williams on drums who would be joining Miles Davis 2 weeks from the this recording session.
The album begins with the medium-up tempoed Saturday and Sunday which has a solo section much similiar to the tune "So What." Its a nice touch of the early 60's sound of breaking away from traditional chord changes and into freer soloing.
The two Moncur originals, Frankenstein and Ghosttown are the highlights of the album. Frankenstein is a medium waltz and has an enjoyable melody. Grachan's soloing and writing are really highlighted in this tune. Its definitely one I plan to transcribe and learn myself. The other tune, Ghosttown reminds me of the tracks from Moncur's album, Evolution. Its an open and spacey tune that invites searching and development from all members of the band. Tony Williams is only 17 or so when this is recorded and his playing blows you away. Listen to the fills he puts in between the melody in the beginning of the tune. Bobby Hutch once again does an incredible job in the harmony and supportive departments.
I like this album because its during one of my favorite periods in jazz, where the music was starting to really search. I love this line up, its pretty much just missing Lee Morgan and it would be the Evolution album band all over again.
Either way this album is not essential unless you are a fan of Jackie McLean, this band's other output or just jazz in general.
4.5 breadsticks
