While several tracks were recorded on the same date as the successful album Herbie Mann At The Village Gate (1961), this album is quite different from that predecessor and, like many sequels, not as good. However, the first 2⁄5 is an enjoyable listen. While the 1961 album contained the popular Comin' Home Baby and two Gershwin tunes, this album is almost entirely Mann originals.
Recorded at the Village Gate in NYC on April 26 (tracks 3-5) and November 17 (tracks 1 & 2), 1961.
 |
| note: side one is now tracks 1 & 2, side two is 3-5. |
Reviews/ratings:
- DownBeat (★★★½): "At times it's too short on melodic interest and long on rhythmic aggression, but at least it is never dull."
- Billboard: "Fine performances spark the set."
- CashBox: "Eye this one for an early trip to hitsville."
- The Virgin Encyclopedia of Jazz (1999): ★★★
Peak on the US Billboard Top 200 chart: Did not chart
Tracks: The first two tracks are great fun: an energetic Afro-Latin boogaloo followed by the frenzied - and appropriately titled - New York Is A Jungle Festival. The remainder, while admirable early attempts at what become known as "world music," are rife with intonation problems and often painfully so.
Personal Memory Associated with this CD: None. I recently saw this in a used bin on the Wounded Bird label and I've learned to grab that label's reissues when I see them. Win some, lose some.
No comments:
Post a Comment