Details

How is it that one ofArt Blakey's greatest albums withthe Jazz Messengersis so little known? The 1961 edition of the Messengers includedLee Morganon trumpet,Wayne Shorteron tenor saxophone,Bobby Timmonson piano, andJymie Merritton bass. In February and May of 1961, this group (with pianistWalter Davis Jrsitting in on two tracks) entered Rudy Van Gelder's studio in New Jersey and proceeded to lay downRoots & Herbs, a brilliant set of six Shorter compositions including the driving hard bop of the title track, the playful Ping Pong, and the clever United. The album was eventually released in 1970 and deserves a place among Blakeys finest recordings.

UHQ-CDs reproduce the sound of original master tapes as faithfully as possible by utilizing new transfer technologies and improved materials to produce high-quality sound with a better representation of the whole stage. UHQ-CDs comply with CD standards and can be played on existing players. Each title is presented in a UHQ-CD jewel case with an obi-strip and the original sleeve notes reproduced on the back inlay.

Tracklist:
1. Ping Pong
2. Roots and Herbs
3. The Back Sliders
4. United
5. Look at the Birdie
6. Master Mind