Jackie McLean: A Fickle Sonance

Jackie McLean first recorded in 1951, with Miles Davis, playing “Dig”. He also played in Charles Mingus’s and Art Blakey’s groups. Initially inspired by Charlie Parker, over time McLean evolved his style to feature short phrases of irregular length. He played his saxophone with a dark tone with microtonally that was either sharp or flat. As his musical style evolved, he emphasized blues inclinations in his harmonic choices.

Released in 1962 on Blue Note Records, A Fickle Sonance, features Tommy Turrentine on trumpet, Sonny Clark on piano, Butch Warren on bass, and Billy Higgins on Drums and represents one of McLean's earlier creative endeavors but last on the Blue Note Records label.

This 2020 pressing of A Fickle Sonance showcases McLean’s musical style with his deep dark tone, quick intense moments, lean powerful statements, and bluesy harmonies. Bringing to life all that fans of McLean have come to adore, this crisp, clean, clear, and deep addition of this classic by UMG are words that underscore the quality of this pressing. Starting with the opening track, this recording from displays everything that made McLean great.

TRACK LIST
1. Five Will Get You Five
2. Subdued
3. Sundu
4. A Fickle Sonance
5. Enitnerrut
6. Lost

If you are a fan of jazz, blues, or just great music then Jackie McLean is an artist that is impossible to ignore. This record grows on you with each listen primarily because of the musical skills of each player, but also because of its progressive style.

Pressed on 180 g vinyl and mastered from the original analog tapes, you’ll be hard pressed (no pun intended) to find a better version of this wonderful record. This record is worth the investment. 💰

💰Invest
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💸 Pass