Peckin' Time cover

Peckin' Time

Hank Mobley · 1959

61 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of hard bop and soul, driven by intricate saxophone lines and dynamic rhythmic interplay.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Peckin’ Time — The title track features Mobley's signature melodic inventiveness, underpinned by a tight rhythm section that elevates the overall groove.
  • →
    Stretchin’ Out — This track showcases Mobley's ability to weave intricate lines while interacting fluidly with the ensemble, embodying the essence of hard bop.
  • →
    Speak Low — Mobley's interpretation of this classic standard highlights his lyrical phrasing and emotional depth, 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
59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions and skilled performances, though its cohesion is affected by the inclusion of alternate takes.

What we noticed

  • The album features intricate saxophone lines that often lead the melodies, supported by a tight rhythm section that shifts dynamically between sections.
  • Each of the main tracks is followed by an alternate take, allowing listeners to hear variations in improvisation and arrangement.
  • The compositions utilize complex harmonies typical of hard bop, with frequent use of syncopation and call-and-response patterns between instruments.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • gradual builds and payoffs
  • steady, consistent energy levels

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in December 1959, Peckin' Time was Hank Mobley's fifth album as a leader, showcasing his distinct voice in the hard bop genre. At this point in his career, Mobley was establishing himself as a key figure in jazz, following his earlier successes with Blue Note and collaborations with legendary artists like Art Blakey and Thelonious Monk.
Stylistic neighbors
Lee Morgan· Wayne Shorter· Donald Byrd

Tracklist

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

  • 1 High and Flighty 6:05
  • 2 High and Flighty (alternate take) 6:05
  • 3 Speak Low 7:10
  • 4 Speak Low (alternate take) 7:10
  • 5 Peckin’ Time 6:50
  • 6 Stretchin’ Out 9:00
  • 7 Stretchin’ Out (alternate take) 6:45
  • 8 Git‐Go Blues 12:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata