24-bit remaster of 1963 live jazz classic

Art Blakey’s June, 1963 Birdland date with the Jazz Messengers (Freddie Hubbard-trumpet; Curtis Fuller-trombone; Wanye Shorter-tenor sax; Cedar Walton-piano; Reggie Workan-bass; Art Blakey-drums) has been reissued several times before, and deservedly so. This was one of Blakey’s best line-ups of a band that had a wealth of talented musicians pass through its ranks. It’s also a superb live date, supplemented by the introduction of original material that remained in the group’s repertoire for years. This latest CD reissue features a fresh 24-bit remaster by Joe Tarantino, new liner notes by Neil Tesser (in addition to the original notes by Ed Sherman and Orin Keepnews) and a fourth bonus track to augment the three offered on previous editions. The sound quality of this recording has always been very good, though not great; the soloists are crisp and out front (Fuller and Hubbard, in particular, really shine), but the backing combo can get a bit muddy when Blakey really gets moving. The previously unreleased track is a cover of George Shearing’s late-40s classic “Conception,” featuring both drum and bass solos, and interesting unison horn playing. This album remains a real treat for jazz fans, and with a new 24-bit master and an added bonus track, it’s a tempting update even for those who own another recent digital edition. [©2011 hyperbolium dot com]