Reach Out cover

Reach Out

Hank Mobley · 1968

37 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of hard bop and soul, rich in melodic improvisation and groove-driven rhythms.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Reach Out I'll Be There — This opening track captures the album's essence with its emotive saxophone lines and rhythmic urgency, setting a compelling tone for the rest of the record.
  • →
    Goin' Out of My Head — A reinterpretation of a pop standard, this track highlights Mobley's lyrical phrasing and showcases how he bridges jazz with popular music influences.
  • →
    Lookin' East — This composition features intricate solos and tight ensemble playing, exemplifying Mobley's signature hard bop style while exploring new harmonic territories.

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 blends hard bop with soulful elements, showcasing Mobley's melodic improvisation and rhythmic grooves.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of syncopated rhythms, particularly in the bass and drums, which drive the groove throughout.
  • Each track showcases extended improvisation sections where the tenor saxophone takes the lead, often supported by rich harmonic backing from the piano and horns.
  • The first three tracks maintain a lively tempo, while the last three slow down slightly, creating a dynamic shift in energy as the album progresses.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

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, consistent energy levels
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • contemplative afternoon vibes

Where this album fits

Career context
In 1968, Hank Mobley was already a respected figure in the jazz scene, known for his smooth tenor saxophone style. 'Reach Out' arrived shortly after his prolific period at Blue Note Records, marking a continued exploration of accessible melodies within jazz. This album followed his earlier works like 'No Room for Squares' and showcased Mobley's commitment to evolving his sound while maintaining his hard bop roots.
Stylistic neighbors
Lee Morgan· Wayne Shorter· Donald Byrd

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Reach Out I'll Be There 6:49
  • 2 Up Over and Out 5:52
  • 3 Lookin' East 5:19
  • 4 Goin' Out of My Head 7:25
  • 5 Good Pickin's 5:30
  • 6 Beverly 7:01

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata