On The Real Side

Writing about Hubbard's latest release is a cause for some bittersweet joy. Hubbard was, until a serious lip problem, one of the greatest trumpet players of the post hardbop period. Since his techincal capacities have diminished, Hubbard has to play shorter phrases and, intially, I often miss the excitement of the more bravura passages. Yet what remains is so musical and tuneful. Hubbard has always had a gift for melody and harmony and it continues to show. It is still Freddie Hubbard and a great artist still has his stamp, whatever the context or obstacles. It is indispensable that the jazz community continues to support Hubbard and the octet. It is great (and important historically) that the Jazz Composers octet has decided to arrange some of Hubbard's best compositions. Especially notable are Sky Dive and the fast postbop Take It To the Ozone. To hear Hubbard's modal chromaticism arranged is a treat. A new composition, On The Real Side, also exhibits Hubbard's most souful side. In general all of the solos are first rate, from Craig Handy, Xavier Davis, Russell Malone, Myron Walden and other. David Weiss, one of the bright stars among young trumpeters is to be commended - both for getting Hubbard to perform again, and for using the format of an octet which brings elements of a big band back onto the jazz scene at a time that small group jamming is still the dominant form.