Mr. Jones

Elvin Jones - Mr. Jones (1972) {Blue Note Japan BNLA Series 24-bit Remaster TOCJ-50551 rel 2013}
EAC rip (secure mode) | FLAC (tracks)+CUE+LOG -> 234 Mb | MP3 @320 -> 92 Mb
Full Artwork @ 600 dpi (png) -> 177 Mb | 5% repair rar | 24-bit remaster
© 1972, 2013 Blue Note / EMI Music Japan | TOCJ-50551
Jazz / Post Bop / Jazz Funk / Drums

A overlooked gem in Elvin Jones' Blue Note career – and an album that's virtually the blueprint for the Stone Alliance sound forged later in the decade by bassist Gene Perla and reedman Steve Grossman! Both players are working to full effect on this smoking little set – mixing some of the more spiritual modes of other group members with their own sharper-edged, funky-leaning styles – all held together perfectly by both Jones' tight work on drums, and his expansive musical vision! Other players are great too – and include Pepper Adams on baritone sax, David Liebman on flute and tenor, and Jan Hammer on acoustic piano – an instrument he handles with surprising subtlety and soul. Many cuts have a hard, choppy groove – and titles include a remake of "Gee Gee", plus "One's Native Place", "Mr Jones", and "What's Up – That's It".

At age 62, Tom Jones is, in a sense, making a comeback with each new recording. That is certainly the case with Mr. Jones, on which he puts himself in the hands of producers Wyclef Jean and Jerry Duplessis. Jones has never minded being the mouthpiece of a producer or two, confident enough in his own persona to stretch to meet different styles. Here, he collaborates with his partners, co-writing many of the songs. And the trio isn't afraid to take on the Jones' legend directly, starting with the lead-off track, "Tom Jones International," which even finds the singer rapping – well, sort of – in a dance-friendly paean to himself.

Already possessing a very distinctive tenor sax sound, Javon Jackson's debut as a leader is an exceptional effort. Jackson, 26 at the time of the recording, joined forces with 40-year-old James Williams, 19-year-old Christian McBride and 64-year-old Elvin Jones to create a powerful musical statement that bridges the generations. "Mr. Jones" refers to the master drummer, whose presence and energy are felt throughout the recording, especially on the medium swingers "The Masquerade Is Over" and Williams' "A Certain Attitude," as well as on the title track and "Theme for Penny," two uptempo Jackson originals that begin with brief drum solos. Also making his presence felt is McBride, whose tone, time, and imagination belie his age. One of 1992's best releases.