This set (reissued on CD in 1997) was one of trumpeter
Lee Morgan's lesser-known Blue Note recordings but it is quite rewarding. The notable sextet (which also includes altoist
Jackie McLean,
Hank Mobley on tenor, pianist
Cedar Walton, bassist
Paul Chambers and drummer
Billy Higgins) performs originals by
Morgan,
Walton and
Duke Pearson, including particularly catchy versions of the funky "Hey Chico" and
Pearson's memorable "Sweet Honey Bee" (which should have become a hit). The three horns, all of whom sound quite individual, each have their exciting moments, and the results are quintessential mid-'60s hard bop. ~ Scott Yanow