Prior to the official formation of
the Jazztet with trumpeter
Art Farmer, trombonist
Curtis Fuller and tenorman
Benny Golson made several albums together, usually with other trumpeters. This somewhat rare date has trumpeter
Thad Jones, bassist
Jimmy Garrison, drummer
Dave Bailey, and, most significantly, pianist
McCoy Tyner in his recording debut completing the sextet.
Fuller arranged all five of the songs, four of which were his originals. Although the material (other than the lone standard "Imagination") is unfamiliar, the chord changes inspire the players to create some fine solos. Easily recommended to hard bop fans lucky enough to find this album. ~ Scott Yanow