Mobley's 2nd Message
Hank Mobley · 1957
41 min · 6 tracks · jazz
A vibrant tapestry of hard bop, blending intricate melodies with soulful rhythms that showcase Mobley's lyrical saxophone style.
Top tracks — play these first
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These Are the Things I Love — This opening track encapsulates Mobley's signature lyrical approach, combining heartfelt expression with complex harmonies that set the tone for the entire album.
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Message From the Border — With its infectious groove and intricate interplay among musicians, this track exemplifies the collaborative spirit of hard bop while highlighting Mobley's unique saxophone voice.
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I Should Care — This extended piece showcases Mobley's emotional range and technical prowess, featuring rich solos that reflect both vulnerability and strength in the music.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalMobley's intricate melodies and soulful rhythms create a vibrant hard bop experience that stands out in its era.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of call-and-response between the saxophone and the piano, creating a dynamic interplay throughout.
- The arrangements often include extended solos that allow for improvisation, particularly highlighting Mobley's lyrical style on the saxophone.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 melodic progression throughout
- thoughtful afternoon listening experience
- rich improvisation in each track
- reflective moments of calm focus
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek high-energy party music
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in May 1957, 'Mobley's 2nd Message' marked Hank Mobley's artistic maturation as a leading voice in hard bop, following his acclaimed debut album 'No Room for Squares.' At this point in his career, he was establishing himself as a key player alongside jazz luminaries like Art Blakey and Horace Silver, solidifying his reputation within the Blue Note roster.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Lee Morgan· Wayne Shorter· Donald Byrd
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 These Are the Things I Love 6:38
- 2 Message From the Border 6:04
- 3 Xlento 5:37
- 4 The Latest 5:49
- 5 I Should Care 10:02
- 6 Crazeology 6:56
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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