Alto Saxophone Master Jackie McLean: "High Frequency"

Tonight's Jazz Feature is a belated Birthday tribute to one of the the most unique and individual voices of the alto saxophone John Lenwood "Jackie" McLean. Jackie was born in Harlem, New York City on May 17,1931 and passed away at age 74 on March 31, 2006 after a long illness. Jackie made his first recording at age 19 with Miles Davis as a disciple of Charlie Parker and with his own sound. It wasn't long before Jackie developed his own ideas and phrasing. The Jazz Feature is a rare and previously unissued Blue Note Records date from 1966 that has Jackie exploring linear modal forms on the five tunes on the album. He also presents along with bassist Don Moore, two relatively new players on the New York scene: pianist Larry Willis who contributes the title track and and one other tune and a great young drummer from Chicago named Jack DeJohnette! Jackie's sound has been described as "sugar free saxophone" and you'll hear that in abundance tonight. Happy Birthday Anniversary Mr. McLean and to our listers: enjoy "High Frequency".