Bobby Hutcherson “Dialogue” (1965)

This is quite an allstar lineup: Bobby Hutcherson(vibes), Andrew Hill (piano), Sam Rivers (sax), Joe Chambers (drums), Richard Davis (bass), Freddie Hubbard (trumpet). Bobby Hutcherson made Dialogue after spending time recording with Eric Dolphy. That’s probably why this album feels a bit quirky and out of joint, but it’s also why it’s so good. For the most part this is great post-bop with an avant-garde flavor. The third and fourth tracks are avant-garde with a post-bop flavor. Richard Davis’ bass work has impressed me quite often and Dialogue is no exception. Frankly, Andrew Hill’s playing on the title track scares me. [It’s that good.] There’s no other way to describe it. –Rob