One of CTI's Best
Samuel Voelz | California, USA | 10/29/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Why this record is now out of print in the states is a mystery. This is by far one of CTI's finest releases. On this recording you will not find the orchestra and string arrangements common in CTI productions. This is just a raw record with a unique line-up of players. Lead by Stanley Turrentine and featuring Milt Jackson, the others are Bob James (keys), Ron Carter (bass), Cornell Dupree (guitar), and Billy Cobham (drums), all of whom show up in excellent form. The playing is well inspired from beginning to end. The recording quality is excellent as well. This record is right up there with the "California Concert," also on CTI."
Good and a half
Bill Your 'Free Form FM Handi Cyber | Mahwah, NJ USA | 07/19/2010
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Sometimes there really is nothing new under the sun, and when I bought Cherry seeing it was from 1972 and on CTI.
I was expecting soul jazz, and to a degree, this is true. Cherry contains funky tracks such as "Sister Sanctified," but also a good deal of numbers like "Speedball," which sounds like be-bop with an electric piano.
All of this is great if you like more conservative, traditional jazz, albeit with 1972 production. And the playing is excellent: how could it be otherwise with a line-up featuring Ron Carter, Billy Cobham and Milt Jackson.
But there are not a lot of fresh ideas on this album, only amazing playing. If right field is where Stanley Turrentine wanted to work from, that is a valid choice.
But I would like it if Cherry took a few more risks"