The Quota cover

The Quota

Jimmy Heath · 1961

38 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of hard bop with intricate arrangements and rich improvisation that showcases Jimmy Heath's compositional prowess.

Top tracks — play these first

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    The Quota — The title track opens the album with a bold statement, featuring intricate melodies and showcasing Heath's skillful saxophone work alongside tight ensemble playing.
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    When Sunny Gets Blue — This rendition highlights Heath's ability to convey deep emotion through his saxophone, transforming a classic tune into a poignant exploration of melancholy.
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    Thinking of You — This track stands out for its lush harmonic structure and playful interaction between the instruments, reflecting Heath's innovative approach to composition.
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    Lowland Lullaby — With its gentle tempo and soothing melody, this piece showcases Heath's talent for crafting serene soundscapes within the hard bop framework.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • intricate melodies for attentive listeners
  • soothing sounds for evening relaxation
  • conversational interplay among instruments
  • thoughtful reflections during quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking fast-paced excitement
  • prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1961, The Quota was Jimmy Heath's debut album as a leader after years of working with prominent jazz figures like Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis. This album marked a significant step in Heath's career, establishing him as a vital voice in the hard bop movement and setting the stage for his subsequent work as a bandleader.
Stylistic neighbors
Wayne Shorter· McCoy Tyner· Joe Henderson

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Quota 5:08
  • 2 Lowland Lullaby 4:38
  • 3 Thinking of You 5:08
  • 4 Bells and Horns 4:55
  • 5 Down Shift 5:47
  • 6 When Sunny Gets Blue 6:29
  • 7 Funny Time 6:22

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata