Requisites

Consequence, as defined in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is “something that happens as a result of a particular action or set of conditions”. In effect, that’s a perfect way to describe this morning’s choice from the library, Consequence (Blue Note Classic LT-994). Alto saxophonist Jackie McLean’s two previous releases, One Step Beyond and Destination Out expressed an abstract style toward progressive jazz and both were still selling well. I think this is why Alfred Lion didn’t release the album after it was recorded. However, this 1965 date pairs McLean with one of his favorite collaborators, Lee Morgan on trumpet.  The rhythm section is equally stellar, Harold Mabern on piano, Herbie Lewis on bass, and Billy Higgins on drums. My copy used in this report is the original 1979 Stereo LP.

Bluesanova, the first of two tunes by Morgan starts Side One with a dazzling theme led by the front line. Lee takes off first on an enthusiastic rhythmic flight succeeded by Jackie who wails with exciting freshness. Harold weaves a happy spell on the closing performance, then the front line makes one final comment each before the ensemble dissolving into nothingness. Consequence, also by McLean is a speed demon from the outset of the brisk opening chorus. The leader opens the soloing like a meteorite streaking across the sky. Morgan raises the temperature to the searing heat of a tropical summer on the second reading.  Mabern delivers a ferocious statement next, then Higgins has a rapid-fire exchange with Lee and Jackie into an abrupt climax.

My Old Flame by Sam Coslow and Arthur Johnston made its debut in the 1934 film, Belle of The Nineties. The lyrics of this beautiful ballad describe a woman recalling a former lover with reflective affection, and the group presents a passionately tender interpretation. Jackie takes the first step with a touching opening statement.  Harold and Lee turn in two beautifully expressed readings before Jackie appears again for a delicately elegant ending. A festive mood gets Side Two underway with McLean’s Tolypso, a danceable mid~tempo tune providing the ideal setting for a graciously inviting lead presentation by the altoist. Morgan adds some hot and spicy sauce to this festive occasion and Mabern sizzles with an effervescent spontaneity before the trio leads the partygoers into a fadeout.

Slumber is by Lee Morgan and during the melody, I thought I’d heard it before and was experiencing déjà vu. It turns out I did recognize it because it was recorded two years later on The Procrastinator (1978) as Soft Touch. After the ensemble’s unhurried melody, Lee opens the first solo expressing an enjoyable, relaxed mood. Jackie’s alto swings brightly next and Harold captivates on the closing reading. McLean’s Vernestune was originally recorded as The Three Minors in 1962 for an album that was shelved until its release in Japan, Jackie McLean Quintet (1977). It begins with a speedy main theme in unison. McLean provides plenty of fireworks on the first solo, then Morgan answers with a quick attack. Mabern blazes brightly on the closing presentation with a ferocious determination that doesn’t stop until the upbeat exit.

McLean and Morgan were a perfect match together and Alfred Lion utilized their talents whenever he could. Jackie performed on Lee’s LP’s: Leeway (1961), Cornbread (1967), Charisma (1969), The Sixth Sense (1970), Tom Cat (1980), and Infinity (1981). Lee returned the favor on Jackie’s album Jacknife (1975).  The sound of the original recording by Rudy Van Gelder is quite good without a bit of harshness from top to bottom. I did an A-B listening comparison between Consequence and Record Five of The Complete Blue Note 1964-66 Jackie McLean Sessions (1993), which duplicates the LP song sequence. The sound of the Mosaic album is exceptional with a significant improvement in the highs, midrange, and bass. If you like jazz or are a fan of Jackie McLean, Consequence is a solid straight-ahead session with an extraordinary supporting cast that you can’t listen to without tapping your feet. Together, they create thirty-six minutes of enjoyable listening worthy of occupying a spot in any Hard-Bop or Post-Bop library!

Charisma (Blue Note BST 84312), Destination Out (Blue Note BLP 4165/BST 84165), Infinity (Blue Note Classic LT-1091), Jacknife (The Blue Note Reissue Series BN-LA457-H2), Leeway (Blue Note BLP 4034/BST 84034), One Step Beyond (Blue Note BLP 4137/BST 84137), The Complete Blue Note 1964-66 Jackie McLean Sessions (Mosaic Records MQ6-150), Jackie McLean Quintet (Blue Note LNJ-80118), The Procrastinator (Blue Note Classic Jazz Series BN-LA582-J2), Tom Cat (Blue Note Classic LT 1058) – Source: Discogs.com

~ My Old Flame – Source: JazzStandards.com ~ Belle of The Nineties – Source: Wikipedia.org ~ Bluesanova – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBEDJ1Ke5l0 ~ Consequence – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YKe7O6KDxM © 2021 by Edward Thomas Carter

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