Search - Freddie Redd :: Shades of Red

Shades of Excellence

David Thomas | Beaverton, OR USA | 03/22/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I picked up a used copy of this great CD off of Amazon after searching for it everywhere (it is now out of print). What a find! Most jazz fans have heard a lot of Jackie McLean, but less of Tina Brooks; had circumstances been better for him, he could have been as big as Mobley or Henderson. All tracks are tight and crackling; Redd's piano style is very unique and the rhythm section (including Paul Chambers) is fantastic. If you are a fan of jazz, this is a must-have for your collection!"

Classic Bop

Michael B. Richman | Portland, Maine USA | 06/30/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The fact that no one has yet reviewed this album probably means a lot of people have not bought it. This is a shame. "Shades of Redd" is one of the best Blue Note recordings and needless to say a largely unheralded masterpiece. Coming off his successful stint in "The Connection," Freddie adds both Tina Brooks and Jackie McLean to his frontline for this album. In fact, Freddie had recorded versions of the music from "The Connection" with both of these saxophonists separately, and his familiarity with their styles of playing shows. All of the Redd originals feature beautiful chromatic, lyrical playing from Brooks and McLean, but particularly on "The Thespian" and "Melanie." Paul Chambers and Louis Hayes complete the quintet, and they are solid as usual. Fans of Redd, Tina, Jackie Mac, or Blue Note in general should not miss the opportunity to get this limited edition CD."