Early genius from the great saxophonist John Handy – working here at a time when he was fresh from some key experience with Charles Mingus, and ready to try out some of his own great ideas as a leader on his own! The album's a stunner right from the start – a record of subtle power and very deep soul – one that's also different than some of the directions Handy would take in years to come – both in some of his more freewheeling hippy modes, or his slicker jazz funk of the 70s. Instead, this set's a mix of modern ideas and sharper swing – a bit like Jackie McLean during some of his pivotal early 60s years, but with raspier soul too – delivered by a perfect group that also features great work on trumpet from Richard Williams, plus piano from Roland Hanna, bass from George Tucker, and drums from the great Roy Haynes. Titles include "Blues In The Vernacular", "Suggested Line", "First Time", "I'll Close My Eyes Again", "Quote Unquote", and "Dance To The Lady". LP, Vinyl record album

Great stuff! This fantastic lost John Handy album for Roulette, like his others, stands as some of the finest unknown jazz of the 60's. These records are always (unfortunately) passed by in the racks, but don't make the same mistake! Handy's alto is honed to a razor sharp point, fresh from his work with Mingus, and the writing and playing is at a level that he (and few other alto players) ever reached again. A young Walter Bishop plays piano, and the cuts include "No Coast", "Boo's Ups & Downs", and "Quote, Unquote". LP, Vinyl record album