Milt Jackson and the Hip String Quartet cover

Milt Jackson and the Hip String Quartet

Milt Jackson · 1968

29 min · 8 tracks · bebop

A vibrant fusion of bebop and strings that elevates jazz into a lush, sophisticated realm.

Top tracks — play these first

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    You Got to Pay When the Deal Goes Down — This opening track sets the tone with a compelling melody, highlighting Jackson's signature vibraphone alongside lush string harmonies that encapsulate the album's essence.
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    A Walkin' Thing — The interplay between Jackson's vibraphone and the strings creates a dynamic conversation, showcasing both rhythmic complexity and melodic beauty that exemplifies the album's innovative spirit.
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    Bags and Strings — As the title track, it embodies the unique collaboration of jazz and classical elements, allowing Jackson's improvisational skills to shine against a backdrop of rich string arrangements.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo groove
  • rich vibraphone melodies
  • intricate rhythmic exploration
  • suitable for relaxed gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced music
  • seek standalone hit tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
In 1968, Milt Jackson was already a prominent figure in jazz, known for his work as a vibraphonist with the Modern Jazz Quartet. This album marked his exploration of new textures by collaborating with string instruments, showcasing a significant expansion in his musical style following the success of previous works.
Stylistic neighbors
Bobby Hutcherson· Gary Burton· Lionel Hampton

Tracklist

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

  • 1 You Got to Pay When the Deal Goes Down 3:16
  • 2 The Morning After 3:23
  • 3 For All We Know 3:20
  • 4 A Walkin' Thing 5:21
  • 5 In Walked Bud 3:32
  • 6 A Little Too Much 3:39
  • 7 Bags and Strings 3:20
  • 8 New Rhumba 4:08

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata