Requisites

Open Sesame ~ Freddie Hubbard | By Eddie Carter

I’ve been a huge Freddie Hubbard fan since I was ten years old, and he’s always been one of my favorite trumpet players. It was while listening to a few of his albums that the inspiration for this morning’s discussion was born. Submitted for your consideration is his first release as a leader, a 1960 release, Open Sesame (Blue Note BLP4040/BST 84040). Freddie was 22 years old when he recorded it, and he’s joined by an excellent ensemble: Tina Brooks on tenor saxophone, McCoy Tyner on piano, Sam Jones on bass, and Clifford Jarvis on drums. The copy I own is the 1999 Classic Records U.S. stereo audiophile reissue sharing the original catalog number.

The title tune, Open Sesame by Tina Brooks, gets the first side off to a good start with the rhythm section’s intro to the quintet’s lively theme. Freddie launches into the first solo with vigorous zest. Tina follows him into the second statement enthusiastically, then McCoy explores the third reading at a consistently high level before the group reassembles for the closing chorus and ending. But Beautiful by Jimmy Van Heusen and Johnny Burke is a pretty ballad whose gentle melody begins with Freddie leading the group. Brooks starts the first solo gracefully, then Tyner continues with a wonderfully rich interpretation. Hubbard shares the song’s final elegant reflection, leading to the ensemble’s reprise and tender close.

Gypsy Blue by Tina Brooks is a medium blues that the quintet brings to life with an easygoing melody. Tina starts the opening solo at an unhurried pace, then Freddie takes over, giving a soulful interpretation. McCoy follows, feeding fresh ideas into the third statement, and Sam takes a carefree walk toward the ensemble’s restatement of the theme and fadeout. Tyner’s introduction sets the stage for the group’s speedy melody of All or Nothing at All by Arthur Altman and Jack Lawrence. Hubbard flies swiftly out of the gate first, then Brooks swings to perfection next. Tyner follows with a spirited statement, and Hubbard and Jarvis share a short exchange preceding the group’s return to the theme.

The trio’s bluesy introduction segues to the ensemble’s relaxed theme, One Mint Julep by Rudolph Toombs. Tina opens with a laid-back swing as comfortable as a favorite outfit. Freddie follows, demonstrating great poise and precision in every note. McCoy then steps into the spotlight for a few easy, flowing lines before the theme returns and the song fades out. The closer is a toe-tapper original by Freddie Hubbard, Hub’s Nub. After the sextet establishes the theme, Freddie takes the lead and constructs a joyous interpretation. Tina is right on his heels with a sprightly statement, and McCoy gets the last word before the theme’s reprise and fadeout.

The original session was produced by Alfred Lion, with Rudy Van Gelder at the controls. The Classic Records audiophile edition was expertly remastered by Bernie Grundman, delivering exceptional audio quality and an outstanding soundstage that places the musicians right in your listening room. Pressed on 180-gram vinyl, the record is perfectly quiet until the music fills the room. Fans of Freddie Hubbard’s Blue Note releases will find this album essential for their library. Open Sesame is a remarkable showcase of musicianship, and this album marks the beginning of a remarkable career. It’s also a title I’m proud to own and wholeheartedly recommend for your shelves!

~ But Beautiful – Source: JazzStandards.com ~ All or Nothing at All – Source: Wikipedia.org © 2026 by Edward Thomas Carter

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