Back catalogue: All genres

Review: Herbie Hancock's Maiden Voyage, recorded in 1965, remains a cornerstone of jazz history, capturing the the era's musical evolution. The ensemble, featuring notable players like Freddie Hubbard on trumpet and George Coleman on tenor sax, creates a rich blend of sound that resonates with listeners. Hancock's piano feels more vibrant, with increased dynamic range, while Hubbard and Coleman's horns possess a lifelike clarity with this new pressing. The bass from Ron Carter has a rich pluck and Tony Williams' drumming resonates beautifully as the celebrated pianist navigates a sonic ocean with his stellar MDQ crew, crafting a series of tone poems that evoke the essence of water. Hancock's compositions explore the delicate balance of movement and stillness, with Coleman providing a reassuring anchor amid the chaos. Freddie Hubbard's more disruptive approach contrasts beautifully, adding depth to the texture. The rhythm section is perpetually in motion, embodying the album's theme of fluidity. Tracks like 'Survival of the Fittest' show Hancock's deft architecture, oscillating between chaos and calm, making for a timeless exploration of sound and emotion, a masterpiece that resonates through the ages.

Review: Andrew Hill's 1968 release merges intricate rhythms with dense, harmonically rich compositions that push the boundaries of jazz. The ensemble, featuring Lee Morgan and Booker Ervin, dives into challenging material that unfolds with every listen. The intricate brass work on tracks like 'Grass Roots' contrasts with the fluidity of Hill's piano, while the rhythm section locks into an effortlessly tight groove. Hill's compositions are complex yet absorbing, blending intellectual depth with emotional resonance, creating a unique sonic landscape that rewards careful listening.

Review: Recorded in 1962, this album captures Hubbard at the peak of his powers, his fiery trumpet soaring alongside a stellar lineup that includes Wayne Shorter, Cedar Walton, Reggie Workman and Philly Joe Jones. From the explosive opener, 'Philly Mignon', to the tender beauty of 'Body and Soul', the album showcases Hubbard's versatility and masterful command of the trumpet. This all analogue reissue, mastered by Kevin Gray from the original master tapes, really captures the energy and intimacy of this classic session.

Review: Vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson's 1965 debut, Dialogue, showcases his adventurous spirit. Already a versatile sideman on albums like Idle Moments and Out To Lunch, Hutcherson steps into the spotlight with a sextet featuring jazz luminaries Freddie Hubbard, Sam Rivers, Andrew Hill, Richard Davis, and Joe Chambers. Dialogue captures Hutcherson's more adventurous leanings, pushing the boundaries of his instrument and the genre. This Tone Poet Vinyl Edition, meticulously mastered by Kevin Gray from the original analogue tapes, offers a pristine listening experience. Pressed on 180g vinyl at RTI and packaged in a deluxe gatefold tip-on jacket, this reissue is a must-have for any serious jazz aficionado. It's a chance to hear a master musician at his most innovative and expressive.