Oliver Nelson - Screamin' The Blues (LP)

"Screamin' The Blues" is a captivating jazz album by the renowned saxophonist Oliver Nelson, originally released in 1960. This album is a stellar showcase of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz, featuring the dynamic interplay between Nelson on tenor and alto sax and the legendary Eric Dolphy on alto, bass clarinet, and flute. The sextet is rounded out by Richard Wyands on piano, George Duvivier on bass, and Roy Haynes on drums, creating a powerful and cohesive sound that is both innovative and deeply rooted in jazz tradition.

The album opens with the title track, "Screamin' The Blues," a soulful and energetic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Other highlights include "March On, March On," a driving, rhythmic composition that showcases the band's tight ensemble playing, and "The Meetin'," a lively and engaging piece that highlights the individual talents of each musician. The album also features the playful and experimental "Alto-Itis," a track that allows Nelson and Dolphy to explore their instruments in a more free-form style.

Recorded in New Jersey in May 1960, "Screamin' The Blues" is a testament to Oliver Nelson's skill as a composer, arranger, and saxophonist. The album's six tracks, spanning a total of 39 minutes, offer a rich and varied listening experience, from the hard-driving bebop of "The Drive" to the more contemplative and introspective "Three Seconds." Whether you're a longtime fan of jazz or a newcomer to the genre, "Screamin' The Blues" is an essential addition to any music collection, offering a thrilling and rewarding journey through the world of jazz.