Requisites

Generation ~ Dexter Gordon | By Eddie Carter

Dexter Gordon, a tenor saxophonist who has always held a special place in my heart growing up, is the focus of this morning’s spotlight with his album Generation (Prestige P-10069). As a teenager, I was fortunate to witness his live performance at the 1972 Newport Jazz Festival in a fantastic jam session. This 1973 release, his eleventh with Prestige, is a reunion with Freddie Hubbard, who previously collaborated with Dexter on Doin’ Allright and Clubhouse. Freddie plays flugelhorn (tracks: A2, B1) and trumpet (A1, B2) on the album. The rhythm section, consisting of Cedar Walton on piano, Buster Williams on bass, and Billy Higgins on drums, is equally impressive. My copy is the original U.S. Stereo release.

The album opens with the first version of Milestones by Miles Davis, setting the tone with a slightly slower groove for the theme. Dexter’s opening solo is immediately captivating, and then Freddie takes over the spotlight for an inspired improvisation. Cedar follows with a well-crafted statement, and Buster contributes a final shining moment before the theme’s reprise and climax. Scared To Be Alone by André Previn is up next. Dexter and the trio initiate the first chorus of the melody, then are accompanied by Freddie to complete the theme. Dexter’s tender and gentle solo paves the way, and Freddie’s luxuriously elegant flugelhorn conveys deep emotion. Buster’s brief reading before the theme concludes touchingly provides the perfect ending to this beautiful ballad.

We See by Thelonious Monk changes the pace with a lively start to the second side. Billy’s rhythmic introduction sets the stage for the quintet’s medium-tempo melody. Dexter demonstrates his skill and precision in a delightful opening solo, followed by Freddie, whose performance displays a dazzling tone. Cedar shines in a well-crafted statement next, while Buster comfortably strolls into the ensemble’s ending theme. The Group by Dexter Gordon wraps up the session with a lively melody led by the front line. Dexter opens the solos buoyantly; then Freddie takes over with a marvelously executed statement. Cedar moves efficiently and effectively next, with Billy adding a final comment during the closing chorus.

Generation was produced by Ozzie Cadena and recorded by Rudy Van Gelder, whose expertise behind the dials ensures an exceptional soundstage. The record’s sound quality is superb; the instruments are incredibly clear, emerging from your speakers with remarkable fidelity. For tenor sax enthusiasts, this hard-bop album certainly deserves a spot in any jazz library. The next time you’re at your favorite record store, be sure to check out Generation by Dexter Gordon. It’s a hidden gem from one of jazz’s most significant musicians, and despite being lesser known in his discography, acquiring it won’t break the bank!

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