Jazz
Released in 1967, BACKLASH shows a young Freddie Hubbard beginning his explorations outside the confines of straight-ahead jazz. The tunes here have a rock-soul flavor and show Hubbard absorbing all that was in the air at that moment. The title track, penned by Donald Picket, easily rolls over the seductive groove laid down by drummer Otis Ray Appleton and showcases Hubbard's shining tone and the fine playing of his old friend, alto saxophonist James Spaulding.
As always, the influence of Clifford Brown is evident in Hubbard's playing, but there is also the echo of Lee Morgan's trumpet work on the classic '60s recording SIDEWINDER. On several cuts, including "Backlash" and, most notably, "Little Sunflower," the subtle percussion of Ray Barretto adds polish to the sweet Latin sheen. That latter track also benefits from Spaulding's delicate flute work. Pianist Albert Daily and bassist Bob Cunningham round out the rhythm section.
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To jazz fans under the age of 30, the name Freddie Hubbard probably won't signify a superstar. From the 1960s to the late 1980s, however, he was the third-best trumpeter in the music (behind Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis). Illness triggered a decline in the 1990s, but, thankfully, there are still numerous reissues that recall his greatness. Backlash, from 1966, finds the former member of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers in a jazz-R&B hybrid mood with pianist Albert Dailey, drummer Otis Ray Appleton, saxophonist/flutist James Spaulding, and percussionist Ray Barretto. Technically, Hubbard's robust Clifford Brown-influenced chops are in full effect. "On the Que Tee," "Up Jumped Spring," and the title track all reflect the soulful spell of Lee Morgan's hit "Sidewinder." But this date is best remembered for giving the world the first version of Hubbard's lovely jazz standard "Little Sunflower." With the lilting Latin tinges provided by Barretto, Hubbard floats above those rhythms with lyrical ease, reminding us of the majesty of his music.
By Eugene Holley Jr.
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Freddie Hubbard- (Trumpet and Flugelhorn)
James Spaulding- (Flute and Alto Saxophone)
Albert Dailey- (Piano)
Bob Cunningham- (Bass)
Otis Ray Appleton- (Drums)
Ray Barretto- (Percussion)
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A1. Backlash 4:10
A2. The Return Of The Prodigal Son 5:37
A3. Little Sunflower 7:50
B1. On The Que-Tee 5:43
B2. Up Jumped Spring 6:39
B3. Echoes Of Blue
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