The 1978 Jazz Messengers was one of Art Blakey's strongest groups in years, although it would soon be overshadowed by its successor (which introduced a young Wynton Marsalis). With trumpeter Valerie Ponomarev, altoist Bobby Watson and a tenor saxophonist forming a potent frontline and new material from each of the principals (plus pianist James Williams) in addition to a lengthy ballad medley, this is a fine all-around set, last available on LP.
Art Blakey And The Jazzmessengers III* – Reflections In Blue Label: Timeless Records – SJP 128 Format: Vinyl, LP, Album Country: Netherlands Released: 1979 Genre: Jazz Style: Hard Bop, Post Bop TracklistHide Credits A1 Reflections In Blue 4:45 Written-By – James Williams A2 E.T.A. 4:54 Written-By – Robert Watson* A3 Say, Dr. "J" 8:57 Written-By – James Williams A4 Mishima Written-By – David Schnitter 6:37 B1 Ballad Medley 1. My Foolish Heart 2. My One And Only Love 3. Chelsea Bridge 4. In A Sentimental Mood B2 Stretching (B Side Total:) 24:10 Written-By – James Williams
Credits Alto Saxophone – Robert Watson* Bass – Dennis Irwin Drums – Art Blakey Engineer – Jan Kranendonk Piano – James Williams Producer – Wim Wigt Tenor Saxophone – David Schnitter Trumpet – Valerie Ponomarev* Notes Recorded At Fendal Sound Recording Studios Loenen Aan De Vecht, Holland, December 4, 1978