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Mercy, Mercy, Mercy! ~ The Cannonball Adderley Quintet | By Eddie Carter

Have you ever heard a record so good it literally got into your head and stayed there forever? This morning’s album is one of those for me. Mercy, Mercy, Mercy! (Capitol Records T 2663/ST 2663) is a live album by the Cannonball Adderley Quintet. It was initially said to have been recorded in 1966 at The Club in Chicago. But it was actually recorded at the Capitol Records Tower with an invited audience and an open bar. The discrepancy arose because Adderley and the clUB’s new manager were friends, and the saxophonist offered the club free publicity. That aside, it’s a terrific album that’s worth the money if you enjoy live jazz.

The quintet consists of Nat Adderley on cornet, Cannonball Adderley on alto saxophone, Joe Zawinul on piano (tracks: A2, A3, B1 to B3) and electric piano (A4), Vic Gatsky on bass, and Roy McCurdy on drums. I own the 1967 U.S. Mono release. The announcer’s introduction sets the stage for Fun, the first of two tunes by Nat Adderley that immediately energizes the audience with the quintet’s lively melody. Cannonball’s brisk lines soar effortlessly in the opening statement, Nat’s spirited response adds warmth, and Joe’s vigorous interpretation ties it all together, showcasing their tight musical chemistry and improvisational skill that truly captures the audience’s excitement.

Cannonball announces the song title to the audience, then notes that their next tune is titled Games, which kicks off with the quintet’s upbeat introduction and theme. Cannonball opens with one of his most inventive solos, then Nat settles into an effervescent groove perfect for finger-popping and toe-tapping. Joe responds with a marvelous interpretation that builds to a satisfying finale. Joe switches to the electric piano as the rhythm section provides a warm backdrop for Cannonball’s intro to the album’s defining moment, Joe Zawinul’s Mercy, Mercy, Mercy. The quintet’s memorable theme and Joe’s soulful solo make this track a highlight, inviting listeners to experience the album’s emotional depth firsthand.

Sticks by Julian Adderley shifts the album into a finger-snapping tempo, opening the second side with the quintet’s danceable melody. Nat takes the lead with an energetic reading, leaving room for his brother to soar next. Joe comes in last and adds an indelible contribution before the ensemble’s theme restates and ends firmly. Hipadelphia by JosefZawinul begins with the ensemble’s relaxed melody. Cannonball has the first say and moves comfortably through the rhythm section with an easy-flowing stream of ideas. Nat rocks the second reading with a light, airy sound. Joe wraps up everything smoothly in the closer before the horns return to take the song out.

The set wraps up with Cannonball’s warm introduction to his tune, Sack O’ Woe. The rhythm section softly sets the mood for the quintet’s lively melody, a heartfelt blend of blues and church influences. Cannonball takes the spotlight first with a soulful sermon. Nat brings everyone to their feet with his finger-snapping, toe-tapping performance. Joe adds emotional intensity in his turn, and Vic finishes off ahead of the ensemble, bringing it all together in the closing chorus. David Alexrod produced Mercy, Mercy, Mercy, while the recording engineer remains a mystery. The album’s sound quality is excellent, making you feel like you're right there in the studio audience, sharing in the joy of the music as it happens.

Mercy, Mercy, Mercy truly shines as a jazz album that is both beautifully crafted and immediately captivating. The quintet’s arrangements and performances flow together smoothly, letting each musician shine and filling the album with warmth and vibrant energy. The title track really highlights what makes this album so special, while the other songs show that Cannonball Adderley and his band could groove in many different ways. I’m sure those in attendance walked away feeling like they had experienced something truly memorable. If you’re already a fan of the Cannonball Adderley Quintet or discovering their music for the first time, I encourage you to pick up Mercy, Mercy, Mercy on your next record shopping trip. It’s a lively and cohesive album that’s perfect for focused listening and relaxing enjoyment!

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