Japanese Remastered SHM-CD pressing. Universal. 2024.
"Leapin' & Lopin'" is a classic jazz album by pianist Sonny Clark, released in 1962 on the legendary Blue Note label. This CD edition captures one of Clark?s most celebrated sessions, featuring an all-star lineup including Tommy Turrentine (trumpet), Charlie Rouse (tenor saxophone), Butch Warren (bass), and Billy Higgins (drums). The album stands out for its inventive compositions and dynamic interplay, with tracks like "Voodoo," "Deep in a Dream," and the title piece showcasing Clark's lyrical touch and rhythmic sophistication. Blue Note Records, established in 1939, has been synonymous with excellence in jazz recordings, nurturing iconic artists such as Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Herbie Hancock. Sonny Clark remains revered as one of hard bop?s finest pianists; his concise yet expressive style left an indelible mark on modern jazz before his untimely passing at age 31.
This is Clark's final album as a leader before his death the following year. "Leapin' and lopin'" (blue note 1961) belongs to the mainstream jazz idiom and the music is very fine indeed. The tunes are all quite memorable; this album stands a bit in the shadow of his classic "Cool struttin'", but I favor this one. Recommended.