BLUE MITCHELL
Blue's Moods (Original Jazz Classics)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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For a horn player, fronting a standard quartet can be his or her biggest challenge since the spotlight is generally on them. On Blue's Moods, recorded in 1960, Mitchell demonstrated his maturity on trumpet and succeeded with assured confidence. Joined by Wynton Kelly on piano, Sam Jones on bass, and Roy Brooks on drums, this group played eight hard bop songs in a swinging and bluesy manner that captivates the listener forty years later.

Mitchell was currently a member of the great Horace Silver Group when he and his band mates recorded the 4 standards and 4 originals that make up Blue's Moods. Mitchell was in excellent form throughout. He possessed a lyrical, warm trumpet tone that was well suited for the Blues and he utilized it to near perfection during his solos. The band was ideally suited for Blue's style and Kelly was especially hot for this session as his solos and comping are a joy to hear. Favorite numbers include "I'll Close My Eyes", "When I Fall In Love", and "I Wish I Knew".

Blue's Moods is a solid hard bop effort full of inventive solos, uptempo numbers and passionate blues. If you have never heard Blue Mitchell, you're in for a treat. If you already are a fan, then this recording is a must. Hard bop at its best.

© 2001 - Ron Saranich