Search - Horace Silver :: The Hardbop Grandpop

Outstanding!!

Robert J. Ament | Ballwin, MO United States | 09/20/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A terrific set by one of the premier exponents of hard bop. Ten originals played by a very heavyweight group. Although we get some good funky piano from Horace Silver, there is a generous amount of solo space for the horns. This septet creates a sound of a much larger band. There's some great harmony here....especially evident on "Gratitude", one of my favorites.All of the horn men turn out some great solos, particularly, Ronnie Cuber, Steve Turre, and Michael Brecker in order of my preference. My favorite selections are "Hawkin", "Gratitude", "The Hippest Cat In Hollywood", "Serenade To A Teakettle" (notable solo by Roditi), and the title cut, which seems to be based upon changes to "Indiana".If you enjoy septet sessions featuring hard bop, a really cohesive group consisting of some excellent soloists, you will cetainly enjoy this one!"

Best Modern Big Band Alive

Steven Gentry | Cincinnati, OH | 04/17/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For those of you who have enjoyed the great sounds of Duke Ellington and Count Basie, this CD is simply a transformation of their ideals into a modern age. The band intergrity is incredibe and unsurpassed by any big band of the day. The personnel heard on the album cannot be matched. If you enjoy the sounds of a tight, critical and exposed big band, then check out this album."

Very slick

R. J. Marsella | California | 09/08/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is as good as bop gets. Every cut is a gem and the recording quality is crystaline. Horace Silver is so funky on the piano and the supporting bandmembers are extremely tight. As good as any of his earlier stuff."