Booker Little: Out Front (1961 – Candid Records)

Booker Little’s “Out Front” is truly one of the great early recordings of the New Jazz. Recorded over two sessions in the spring of 1961 for jazz writer and critic Nat Hentoff’s Candid label, “Out Front” features some of the best jazz musicians of the day — Eric Dolphy, Julian Priester, Ron Carter and Max Roach. (Additionally, Art Davis replaces Carter on three tracks and Don Friedman plays piano.) These are names that would become synonymous with the experimental jazz innovations of the 60s. Of the numerous factors that contribute to this being a classic album, Little’s creative compositions and impeccable arrangements are the most remarkable. The combination of Dolphy, Little and Priester produced bright, energetic melodies that are hauntingly evocative. Unfortunately, Little would die in just a few short months. And it’s tragically ironic that just as Little was shedding the inevitable Clifford Brown comparisons, Little too would die too young and too soon. “Out Front” gives us a glimpse at what could have been, yet thankfully it is a masterpiece in its own right to relish.

Track List:

1. We Speak   
2. Strength and Sanity   
3. Quiet, Please   
4. Moods in Free Time   
5. Man of Words       
6. Hazy Hues   
 

Personnel : 

Booker Little (trumpet); 

 Eric Dolphy (alto saxophone, flute, bass clarinet); 

Julian Priester (trombone); 

Max Roach (vibraphone, drums, tympani); 

Don Friedman (piano); 

Ron Carter, Art Davis (bass). 

Recorded at Nola Penthouse Studios, New York, New York on March 17 & April 4, 1961.
Original Release Date: 1961 – Label: Candid Records

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