Vinyl

Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers – Indestructible

Big, bold jazz demands big, bold grooves. Music Matters delivers that and more on Indestructible. The record starts with a giant drum thwack from Art Blakey and, immediately, the opening “The Egyptian” roars out of the speakers.

Throughout, the interplay between trumpeter Lee Morgan, trombonist Curtis Fuller, and tenor saxophonist Wayne Shorter pins you back in your couch as well as any Metallica record. This LP has big—no, huge—dynamics.  Indestructible takes your system and senses to the limit. And as much fun as the dynamic outbursts are, the most telling clue pertaining to sonic accuracy comes when Blakey slams his drumstick against the side of his snare. Percussion doesn’t sound any more realistic than that. It’s easy to see why Music Matters’ Ron Rambach cites this masterpiece as one of his all-time favorites. It’s fast becoming one of mine, as well. Begin or continue your exploration of bop here.  -Jeff Dorgay

Music Matters, 180g 45RPM 2LP