Very rare video of Hank Mobley performing "Summertime"

Rare footage of Hank Mobley's electrifying "Summertime" performance from Jazzhus Montmartre, Copenhagen, Denmark, 1968

This video is a rare gem that offers a glimpse into the artistry of Hank Mobley, one of the most underrated tenor saxophonists of the bebop era. Filmed for a Danish TV program called JazzBeat, it captures a live performance at the renowned Jazzhus Montmartre in Copenhagen, Denmark, sometime during the early 1960s. Apart from a fleeting appearance in a documentary about Art Blakey, this remains the sole footage showcasing Mobley in action.

Mobley, dubbed “The Middleweight Champion of the Tenor Saxophone” by Leonard Feather, possessed a distinctive tone characterized by warmth, roundness, and a hint of huskiness. While not known for flashy theatrics, he was a virtuoso of melody, harmony, and rhythm. His playing could range from robust swinging to delicate lyricism or uninhibited improvisation, adapting effortlessly to mood and context. Moreover, Mobley was a prolific composer, contributing many memorable tunes to his own albums and the repertoire of groups like the Jazz Messengers, Miles Davis Quintet, and Horace Silver Quintet.

In this video, Mobley is joined by Dexter Gordon's rhythm section of the time: Kenny Drew on piano, Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen on bass, and Albert Heath on drums. Mobley demonstrates his versatility and creativity as he delivers a spirited rendition of “Summertime,” gradually building intensity and volume before returning to the theme and concluding with a flourish.

The rhythm section provides steadfast support and inspiration for Mobley. Drew, among the earliest American jazz pianists to settle in Europe, adds elegance and swing with tasteful chord voicings and runs. A very young Pedersen showcases remarkable virtuosity and maturity on the bass, anchoring the groove and delivering a brief yet impressive solo. Heath, a member of the renowned Heath Brothers, maintains the pulse with finesse and drive, deftly alternating between brushes and sticks to create varied textures and dynamics.

For jazz aficionados, this video is a precious find, offering a rare opportunity to witness the brilliance of Hank Mobley. It serves as a testament to his enduring legacy and underscores his rightful place among the jazz greats. The selection performed, George Gershwin's “Summertime,” is a timeless jazz standard that has been interpreted by countless artists across generations.