HANK MOBLEY
Complete Jazz Message Sessions (Jazz Factory)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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The Complete Jazz Message Sessions is a reissue of early Hank Mobley material from a Savoy date in 1956 involving Mobley on tenor saxophone, Donald Byrd on trumpet, Doug Watkins on bass, Kenny Clarke on drums, and either Barry Harris or Ronnie Ball on piano. In addition, the CD includes a 1953 Debut session with Mobley on tenor, Gigi Gryce on alto saxophone, both Idrees Sulieman and Leon Comegys on trumpet, Walter Davis Jr. on piano, Franklin Skeete on bass, and Max Roach on drums. The music is hard bop, the excitement hard wired.

Mobley shines on eight of his own originals, 6 standards, and 3 Roach numbers. His playing is taut, passionate, and eloquent, his musical ideas constantly demanding the listener's attention. The other band members, in particular Byrd, Clarke, and Roach, sound adventurous and inspired, their playing always personal yet tasteful.

Freddie Hubbard, the great trumpet player who teamed with Hank on several occasions, once said regarding Mobley: "He sure plays relaxed. Hank's my favorite tenor player." I must confess, Hank Mobley is my favorite tenor player as well. I love his tone, his relaxed style of playing, and his musical compositions and arrangements. Mobley is one of those jazz artists who deserves greater attention. His playing is the epitome of bebop tenor saxophone; his purity of imagination unwavering. Hopefully, releases such as this one will bring him the recognition he so rightly deserves. So discover the great Hank Mobley. For additional aural pleasure check out Mobley's playing on his classic Blue Note albums "Another Workout," "Soul Station," "Workout," and "Roll Call." Mobley's musical magic is one of jazz' greatest thrills.

© 2004 - Ron Saranich