Freddie Hubbard's HUB-TONES, a consummate Blue Note date from the early '60s, is the trumpeter's most highly acclaimed disc. Hubbard fronts a standard quintet here, with fine support from James Spaulding, Herbie Hancock, Reggie Workman, and Clifford Jarvis. The trumpeter's style is more clearly defined than on past efforts with a signature approach that Hubbard would continue throughout the remainder of the hard bop era. Indeed, this particular session signaled Hubbard's arrival as one of the giants of the trumpet and a leader of modern jazz.
Significantly, HUB-TONES establishes Hubbard as a masterful composer as well as an interpreter of standards. The opening "You're My Everything" is one of the latter, but the remainder of the cuts are Hubbard's. The lightly swinging "Prophet Jennings" features a muted melody accompanied by Spaulding's delicate flute. The classic title track, presented here in two takes, is the disc's highlight; a raucous, machine gun-like head that opens up into a burning solo session featuring stunning work by all. The moving "Lament For Booker" follows, showcasing Hubbard's velvety ballad style with tasteful support from Spaulding and Hancock. Finally, the fiery "For Spee's Sake" wraps up this essential session.
01. You're My Everything
02. Prophet Jennings
03. Hub-Tones
04. Lament for Booker
05. For Spee's Sake
06. You're My Everything (alternate take, bonus track)
07. Hub-Tones (alternate take, bonus track)
08. For Spee's Sake (alternate take, bonus track)
Freddie Hubbard (trumpet)
James Spaulding (alto saxophone, flute)
Herbie Hancock (piano)
Reggie Workman (bass)
Clifford Jarvis (drums)
@ Great American Music Hall, SF CA 1978
