In the pantheon of Jazz recordings, Clifford Jordan's “Spellbound” stands as a testament to the genre's timeless appeal. Released on the illustrious Riverside label, this album showcases Jordan's early brilliance as a tenor saxophonist, backed by a quartet of equally talented musicians. Sponsored by Cannonball Adderley on this set, Jordan, along with pianist Cedar Walton, bassist Spanky DeBrest, and drummer Albert “Tootie” Heath, embarks on a journey through the realms of hard bop.
Despite not yet possessing the distinctive sound that would later define his collaborations with Charles Mingus, Jordan's artistry shines brightly throughout “Spellbound.” The album's opener, “Toy,” sets a vibrant tone that hints at the dynamic range of emotions to come. However, it's the unique waltz rendition of Billy Strayhorn's “Lush Life” that truly captivates, showcasing Jordan's ability to infuse a classic with his own distinctive signature style.
The synergy between Jordan and Walton is palpable, as they navigate through Jordan's original compositions such as “Moon-A-Tic” and the mesmerizing title track, “Spellbound”. Each note reverberates with a sense of urgency, drawing the listener deeper into the heart of the music. Yet, it's in the rollicking rendition of Charlie Parker's “Au Privave” that the quartet truly shines, displaying a level of camaraderie and improvisational prowess that is simply electrifying.
In the quartet's hands, each piece becomes a narrative in itself, weaving a rich tapestry of sound that is both timeless and evocative. From the playful exuberance of “Toy” to the poignant strains of “Last Night When We Were Young,” Jordan and his ensemble craft a musical journey that resonates with emotion and authenticity.
Clifford Jordan's masterful performance, coupled with the unparalleled musicianship of his quartet, ensures that “Spellbound” remains an essential addition to any Jazz aficionado's collection.
“Jazz washes away the dust of everyday life.”
- Art Blakey
Well written big CJ fan and anything with Cannonball