Bobby Hutcherson: Classic Bobby Hutcherson Blue Note Sessions 1963–1970

This set, which collects all of vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson’s best leader dates, was Michael Cuscuna’s last labor of love, and it’s a fitting finale for the great producer. These classic recordings epitomize the style associated many of Blue Note’s best music from the 1960s, drawing from free jazz, post-Coltrane modal thinking, and the complex reframing of the hard bop approach exemplified by Miles Davis’ mid-1960s quintet. The contents of 11 classic and near-classic records are included, along with eight previously unissued tracks. Sidemen include trumpeter Freddie Hubbard, tenor titans Sam Rivers and Joe Henderson, and pianists McCoy Tyner, Herbie Hancock, and Andrew Hill. Special mention is due to saxophonist Harold Land and drummer Joe Chambers, who appear on several dates and contribute fascinating contributions. Many of these, like Dialogue, Components, and Medina, were five-star records. Evidence of incredible virtuosity and improvisational mastery abound on every track, but even more rewarding is the group feeling created on the demanding structures by all involved. The production is up to Mosaic’s high standards, and the audio is as good as it gets on CD.