Freddie Hubbard’s Here to Stay

Ooooh yeah! This is a gem! This lesser known Freddie Hubbard album was recorded in 1962 but was not officially released until sometime in the 80s.  Featuring Hubbard, Wayne Shorter, Cedar Walton, Reggie Workman and Philly Joe Jones, Here to Stay is all vibe. Not in the sense of slow tempos or meditatively structured tunes, (the album opens with the blistering “Philly Mignon,” one of two compositions by Hubbard on this session), but in terms of the energy between the musicians, the compositions and sonic recording quality, this is mood music all day.  Almost all members of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers at the time of this recording, the synergy is undeniable and the execution is nothing less than stellar. Hubbard’s “Nostrand and Fulton” (BROOK-LYN!) and Cal Massey’s “Assunta” are among my favorites on this album.

I often see colors when I listen to music. For me, this album is definitely grey. The perfect early morning coffee or late night wind down or rainy afternoon album. Of course I can listen to Freddie Hubbard any damn time. Enjoy! Have a great weekend!