TAKIN' OFF

Hancock's debut solo album ( or in that time terminology - "as band leader"). Great hard -bop album of young piano player.

Watermelon Man, the opening track, became after a jazz standard for years! All acoustic album ( incl. trumpeter Freddie Hubbard) contains of 6 strong compositions. Herbie's musicianship is perfect, and all musicians are very competent.

Still without fusion traces, album is great work in later years of bop. Light, melodic ,with emotionally coloured brass soloing, it is perfect listening for any jazz lover. It made basis for Hancock few later solo albums.

Not too much interesting for electric fusion fans, this album is important for any jazz lover, or Hancock fan as well.