Freddie Redd Quintet – Shades Of Redd [Blue Note Classic LP]

Description

Freddie Redds Shades Of Redd arrived in 1960 during a productive stretch for Blue Note, capturing the pianist and composer in a focused quintet setting shortly after his work on The Connection. Built around concise originals and a small-group format, the session brings together Redds piano with Jackie McLean on alto saxophone, supported by a rhythm section that emphasizes clarity of line and steady swing. This Blue Note Classic Vinyl Series edition presents the album on 180g vinyl, preserving the original program with all-analog mastering sourced from the original tapes.

The music centers on Redds writing, which leans toward structured melodies and measured phrasing rather than extended thematic development. “The Thespian” opens with a clear melodic statement that sets up McLeans sharp, slightly biting alto tone, while “Blues-Blues-Blues” settles into a midtempo blues framework with straightforward chord movement and a steady rhythmic foundation. “Shadows” introduces a more restrained pace, allowing space between phrases and emphasizing tonal contrast between piano and horn. Throughout the session, the ensemble maintains a direct, uncluttered approach, with each instrument clearly defined within the groups overall sound.

Presented as part of the Blue Note Classic Vinyl Series, this edition is mastered all-analog by Kevin Gray from the original master tapes and pressed on 180g vinyl. The release retains the original single-pocket jacket design, with period-accurate artwork and labeling that reflect Blue Notes early 1960s aesthetic. The track sequence follows the original LP configuration, with the heavier vinyl offering a solid physical pressing aligned with the series consistent production standards.

• Format: 180g Black Vinyl LP
• Standout tracks: “The Thespian,” “Blues-Blues-Blues,” “Shadows”
• Pressing details: Blue Note Classic Vinyl Series, all-analog mastering by Kevin Gray from original tapes, standard jacket
• Genre/style: Hard Bop, Jazz, Post-Bop, Piano Jazz
• UPC: 602468070115

Shades Of Redd presents Freddie Redds concise writing and small-group interplay in a format that reflects Blue Notes original production approach and session-driven focus.

* The Spotify track list may not exactly represent the tracks and audio of this LP edition.

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Side B:

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