In Pursuit of the 27th Man cover

In Pursuit of the 27th Man

Horace Silver · 1973

40 min · 7 tracks · hard bop

A vibrant blend of hard bop and soulful melodies that captures the essence of urban life in the early '70s.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its exploration of social issues through jazz, particularly its title track, which addresses the plight of individuals who struggle against systemic injustice. It received critical acclaim for its innovative approach and solidified Silver's reputation within the jazz community during a transformative era marked by cultural upheaval.
Best for
steady mid-tempo progression urban life reflections soulful melodies for relaxation
Context
In Pursuit of the 27th Man marked Horace Silver's return to the studio after a brief hiatus following the release of his album Song for My Father in 1965. By 1973, he was well-established as one of jazz's leading figures, known for his distinctive compositional style that fused rhythm and blues with hard bop. This album illustrated his continued evolution as an artist, showcasing both his signature piano work and his commitment to social themes.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Liberated Brother Standout 5:20
  • 2 Kathy 4:18
  • 3 Gregory Is Here 6:20
  • 4 Summer in Central Park Standout 4:40
  • 5 Nothin' Can Stop Me Now 5:14
  • 6 In Pursuit of the 27th Man Standout 9:45
  • 7 Strange Vibes 5:00

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata