What makes The Turnaround! by Hank Mobley notable?

The Turnaround! is notable for its critical acclaim within jazz circles, often recognized as one of Mobley's essential works that contributed to the evolution of hard bop. The album's impact is underscored by its enduring popularity among jazz aficionados and its influence on later musicians exploring similar styles. Released in early 1965, The Turnaround! came during Hank Mobley's peak as a prominent figure in the hard bop movement, following his critically acclaimed album Soul Station. This album continued to solidify Mobley’s reputation as a masterful saxophonist and bandleader, featuring his signature lyrical style and innovative compositions.

Who is The Turnaround! for?

The Turnaround! works well if you're into steady melodic explorations throughout, for focused listening and intricate improvisation rewards attention.

How many songs are on The Turnaround!?

The Turnaround! has 6 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

The Turnaround!

Hank Mobley · 1965

42 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of hard bop and soulful melodies, showcasing intricate improvisations and rich harmonic textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Pat ’n Chat — This opening track sets the tone with its upbeat tempo and playful call-and-response dynamic between the horns, highlighting Mobley's distinctive approach to melody.
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The Turnaround — Serving as the title track, it features complex rhythms and daring improvisations that exemplify Mobley's ability to fuse intricate arrangements with soulful expression.
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Hank’s Waltz — This piece showcases Mobley's lyrical prowess, with a waltz feel that allows for expressive soloing, making it a standout in his discography.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong improvisation and varied tempos, making it a solid entry in Mobley's discography.

What we noticed

The album opens with a brisk tempo on 'Pat ’n Chat', establishing a lively mood that persists through the first three tracks.
Each track features extended improvisation sections, allowing the musicians to explore themes rather than strictly adhering to written melodies.
The final track, 'My Sin', introduces a slower tempo and a more contemplative atmosphere, providing a contrast to the preceding pieces.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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 melodic explorations throughout
for focused listening
intricate improvisation rewards attention
soulful vibes for relaxed evenings

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced instant gratification
seek standalone hit tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in early 1965, The Turnaround! came during Hank Mobley's peak as a prominent figure in the hard bop movement, following his critically acclaimed album Soul Station. This album continued to solidify Mobley’s reputation as a masterful saxophonist and bandleader, featuring his signature lyrical style and innovative compositions.
Stylistic neighbors: Lee Morgan· Wayne Shorter· Donald Byrd

Tracklist

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

1 Pat ’n Chat 6:25
2 Third Time Around 6:19
3 Hank’s Waltz 7:38
4 The Turnaround 8:15
5 Straight Ahead 7:00
6 My Sin 6:52

What to play next

Listen next

Dippin'

1966

Go back to

No Room for Squares

1964

Full Hank Mobley discography Artists like Hank Mobley

hard bop soul

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata