Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers - Ugetsu

Birdland was home base for Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. The drummer launched the live recording trend in the Manhattan club in 1954, and returned frequently to lead and often document various editions of his star-studded band. This was Blakey's final Birdland recording, and as usual it provided a showcase for both the playing and writing skills of the Messengers. Wayne Shorter takes top honors with three compositions and a stirring ballad feature, Curtis Fuller contributes a pair of energized tunes, and Cedar Walton is responsible for the classic title opus.

Recorded live at Birdland, New York City, June 16, 1963.

Music:
Art Blakey, drums
Freddie Hubbard, trumpet
Curtis Fuller, trombone
Wayne Shorter, tenor sax
Cedar Walton, piano
Reggie Workman, bass