What makes Dippin' by Hank Mobley notable?

The album is notable for its seamless integration of diverse influences, helping to define the sound of hard bop in the mid-60s. It received positive reviews for its engaging arrangements and improvisational depth, showcasing Mobley's unique voice that influenced future generations of jazz musicians. When 'Dippin'' was released in 1966, Hank Mobley was solidifying his reputation as a leading tenor saxophonist in the jazz scene. This album followed his critically acclaimed works like 'Soul Station' and marked a continued exploration of intricate compositions and ensemble interplay during a prolific period of creativity.

Dippin' works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove, soulful improvisation moments and vibrant rhythmic interplay.

How many songs are on Dippin'?

Dippin' has 6 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Released 60 years ago

Dippin'

Hank Mobley · 1966

42 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of hard bop and soul, infused with Latin rhythms and rich improvisation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Dip — This opening track sets the tone with its infectious groove and showcases Mobley's lyrical saxophone lines against a tight rhythm section, embodying the album's spirit.
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Recado Bossa Nova — This piece highlights Mobley's versatility, blending traditional bossa nova rhythms with jazz harmonies, creating a lush soundscape that captivates listeners.
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I See Your Face Before Me — Mobley’s emotive playing on this standard reveals his ability to convey deep feelings through melody, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

Dippin' blends hard bop with Latin influences, showcasing strong improvisation and cohesive arrangements.

What we noticed

Each track showcases extended improvisation sections, allowing the musicians to explore themes and variations in depth.
The album incorporates Latin rhythms, particularly evident in 'Recado Bossa Nova', which shifts the groove while maintaining a hard bop foundation.
The final track, 'Ballin’,' concludes with a gradual deceleration, creating a sense of closure after the energetic preceding pieces.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo groove
soulful improvisation moments
vibrant rhythmic interplay
for relaxed afternoons

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced excitement
want standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'Dippin'' was released in 1966, Hank Mobley was solidifying his reputation as a leading tenor saxophonist in the jazz scene. This album followed his critically acclaimed works like 'Soul Station' and marked a continued exploration of intricate compositions and ensemble interplay during a prolific period of creativity.
Stylistic neighbors: Lee Morgan· Wayne Shorter· Donald Byrd

Tracklist

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

1 The Dip 7:57
2 Recado Bossa Nova 8:13
3 The Break Through 5:51
4 The Vamp 8:21
5 I See Your Face Before Me 5:29
6 Ballin’ 6:49

What to play next

Listen next

A Caddy for Daddy

1967

Go back to

The Turnaround!

1965

Full Hank Mobley discography Artists like Hank Mobley

hard bop soul

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata