One of our favorite albums ever from Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers – but a set that was unreleased by Blue Note for quite a few years! The set's one of two gems the group recorded in 1961, but which were held back until the end of the 60s – and it features a stellar version of the group with Wayne Shorter on tenor, Lee Morgan on trumpet, and Bobby Timmons on piano – all wonderful players who were really coming into their own at the time, and starting to bring a richness to the Messengers sound that would leave its mark in jazz for many years to come! The group is razor-sharp on the rhythms, but also really able to take new chances with their phrasing and timing – on a host of wonderful tracks that include "Those Who Sit & Wait", "The Witch Doctor", and "A Little Busy" – all real classics from this special group. LP, Vinyl record album

One of the best-remembered records by this classic ensemble – thanks to a sweet vocal take on "Nina Never Knew", the playful sound of "Doodletown Fifers", and other cuts that include "Eddie & The Witch Doctor", "Azure-Te", "Stop Sit Down Relax Think", and "Rain". Classic Jim Flora cover, too! LP, Vinyl record album