Today, March 3rd, is the day to play your copy of #freddiehubbard First Light album. It was winner of the #grammys for Best Jazz performance by a group. Recorded 50 years ago this year, released 49 years ago and awarded 48 years ago.
Almost ignored by critics at the time, First Light is one of the definitive Creed Taylor produced albums. Overlooked in comparison to Red Clay, First Light with Freddie’s signature sound, was also a masterpiece of arrangement by #donsebesky, who was also nominated in 1972 for best arrangement for Lonely Town from the First Light album.
Completely forgotten from the CTI pantheon, was that Sebesky was also nominated the same year twice in the category of best arrangement accompanying vocalist for Day by Day and Lazy Afternoon from the Jackie and Roy CTI album, Time & Love.
Today is for Freddie though, grab your copy and play-it-loud, this link has all the details and backstory for the album.
Yes, I know, I cheated, the live version of First Night was not on the CTI vinyl releases… I just like to hear Frankie Crocker saying “Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome, Freddie Hubbard”.