Title: The Kicker 

Label: Blue Note 21437, Tone Poet Series

Recorded: December 29, 1963, Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, USA

First released on CD in 1999

First released on vinyl LP in 2020

Musicians: Bobby Hutcherson (vibes), Joe Henderson (tenor sax), Duke Pearson (Piano), Grant Green (Guitar), Bob Cranshaw (Bass), Al Harewood (Drums). 

This is swinging, joyful, all-round outstanding hard bop. The Duke Pearson composition “Bedouin” is the winner among first class tunes throughout. 

Interestingly, this record was not released by Blue Note until 36 years after it was recorded. Again, thanks to the tireless Michael Cuscuna for unearthing the tape from the Blue Note vaults.  The Tone Poets release this year is the first on vinyl. Produced by Joe Harley and superbly remastered by Kevin Gray.  Very highly recommended.