The Reverend Jesse Jackson gives an inspiring brief speech to open the festivities, and the Quintet begins with "Walk Tall," a lively jazz/R&B number. Named in honor of Jackson "Country Preacher" and written by keyboardist
Joe Zawinul, the changing tempo tribute has two contrasting grooves: one's sad and reflective, the other happy and boisterous. The album tributes Jacksons' Operation Breadbasket program in Chicago, IL.
Nat Adderley composed "Hummin'," a masterfully executed piece; the
Adderley brothers' stinging solo's are complemented by
Zawinul's sparkling piano play. Bassist
Walter Booker shines on "Oh Babe," a vamp that owes more to blues than jazz, and
Cannonball sings the bluesy lyrics like he had too much to drink. "Afro Spanish Omelet" has four parts: "Umbakwen" written by
Nat finds
Cannoball's sax at it's inquisitive best.
Booker solos the entire 3:03 seconds of "Soli Tomba." "Oiga" is
Zawinul's best solo, and drummer
Roy McCurdy plays like a disturbed man surrounding
Zawinul's probing electric piano with some imaginative percussioning.
Cannonball displays well-trained chops on "Marabi" as he battles with brother
Nat's coronet. Jesse Jackson kicks off "The Scene" while
Cannoball gives thanks and group introductions over a roadhouse groove. ~ Andrew Hamilton