Originally released in 1968,
Introducing Kenny Cox and the Contemporary Jazz Quintet is the first recording by the storied and somewhat lesser known Detroit ensemble. Led by pianist
Cox,
the Contemporary Jazz Quintet featured saxophonist
Leon Henderson (brother of
Joe Henderson), trumpeter Charles Moore, bassist
Ron Brooks, and drummer
Danny Spencer. Interestingly, this group is perhaps best known for its connection to the legendary Detroit rock group
the MC5 as both Moore and
Henderson performed on the band's 1971 cut "Sister Anne."
Cox himself was well established in the Detroit scene by the time of this recording having studied at the competitive Cass Tech High School and the Detroit Conservatory of Music as well as performed with a who's who of Detroit players including
Yusef Lateef. Though well-versed in the traditions of jazz standards and bop,
Cox and his ensemble resembles most closely here the classic
Miles Davis quintet of the mid- and late '60s. But rather than merely aping
Davis,
the Contemporary Jazz Quintet had a muscular and urban group sensibility all its own. In that sense, this is fiery, expansive, and cerebral post-bop of the highest order. ~ Matt Collar