Art Blakey Big Band cover

Art Blakey Big Band

Art Blakey · 1959

34 min · 8 tracks · bebop

A vibrant explosion of big band jazz, merging intricate arrangements with Blakey's dynamic percussion.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its bold orchestration and arrangement, highlighting the evolution of big band jazz during the late 1950s. It received positive critical attention, showcasing Blakey's ability to lead a large ensemble while maintaining the spontaneity characteristic of his smaller groups.
Career context
By 1959, Art Blakey was a celebrated figure in the jazz world, known for his work with the Jazz Messengers. 'Art Blakey Big Band' followed his successful 'A Night in Tunisia' album and showcased his transition into larger ensemble formats, emphasizing both composition and improvisation in bebop jazz.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Midriff Standout 3:17
  • 2 Ain't Life Grand 3:21
  • 3 Tippin' Standout 6:23
  • 4 Pristine 5:35
  • 5 El Toro Valiente 2:43
  • 6 The Kiss of No Return Standout 5:37
  • 7 Late Date 3:33
  • 8 The Outer World 4:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata