Freddie Hubbard - Fastball (Live at the Left Bank)

This previously unreleased 1967 concert features Freddie Hubbard leading a quintet that includes tenor saxophonist Bennie Maupin, pianist Kenny Barron (whose playing is somewhat muffled much of time and he is plagued by an obviously out of tune instrument), bassist Herbie Lewis, and drummer Freddie Waits. All of the tracks are extended blowing sessions for the group, especially featuring the leader's rapid-fire trumpet solos. Highlights include the bossa nova "Pensativa," a stunning arrangement of "Willow Weep for Me," and Hubbard's lively post-bop composition "Bob's Place." The overall performances more than make up for the erratic fidelity of this nonprofessional recording, so fans of Freddie Hubbard will definitely want to pick up this CD. - AMG

Artist: Freddie Hubbard
Album: Fastball (Live at the Left Bank)
Year: 1967
Total time: 63:15

Personnel:
Freddie Hubbard (Trumpet)
Benny Maupin (Tenor Saxophone)
Kenny Barron (Piano)
Herbie Lewis (Double Bass)
Freddie Waits (Drums)

Tracks:
1. Pensativa (Clare Fischer) 16:53
2. Echoes of Blue (Robert Cunningham) 10:34
3. Crisis (Freddie Hubbard) 12:31
4. Willow Weep for Me (Ann Ronnell) 10:03
5. Bob's Place (Freddie Hubbard) 13:11

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