Ahmad Jamal Trio: The Awakening (Verve By Request) [VERVE]

Why you'll love it

The Awakening is a pianist's masterclass in space, touch and groove, and its title track became a favourite source of samples for hip hop producers.

This edition

• Verve By Request series
• Verve pressing

About the album

Recorded for Impulse! with bassist Jamil Nasser and drummer Frank Gant, The Awakening captures Jamal's trio in peak form, balancing his famously sparing, dramatic phrasing with lush harmony and a relaxed, deep swing.

The title track and "Patterns" are Jamal originals full of shifting moods, Herbie Hancock's "Dolphin Dance" glides beautifully, Oliver Nelson's "Stolen Moments" is cool and soulful, and Jobim's "Wave" closes gently.

Awake, and very much alert.

Also at Kops: more Ahmad Jamal on vinyl · browse Modern Jazz

Tracklist

Listen

On Verve, from the Verve By Request series. First out in 1970.