Curtis Mayfield is often remembered for penning the popular theme "Freddie's Dead." The irony of this title echoes sentiments of out-of-the-loop jazzers who thought iconic Blue Note pianist Freddie Redd made the passage. Redd, the lyrical comrade of Horace Silver and disciple of Bud Powell, is still very much alive and well, performing more regularly in Los Angeles.
The Music from The Connection reflects the turmoil, redemption, and salvation of its characters. The Connection was actually a 1959 play, and the members of the bandRedd, Jackie McLean (alto saxophone), Michael Mattos (bass), and Larry Ritchie (drums)were cast in it as themselves. Redd astutely suggested that band members play themselves so as to increase their notoriety and recognition.
This disc is valuable not only for its significance as the original score to its namesake play, but also for Redd's ability to musically capture a turbulent social climate. The sensibility and musical articulation are outstanding. And once again, Redd demonstrates his own voice along with giants he's influenced and vice versa. One of the most talented pianists of the hard bop era, Redd is still very much alive and his music always will be.
Track Listing
Who Killed Cock Robin?; Wigglin'; Music Forever; Time to Smile; Sister Salvation/Jim Dunn's
Dilemma; O.D.
All About Jazz has been a pillar of jazz since 1995, championing it as an art form and, more importantly, supporting the musicians who create it. Our enduring commitment has made "AAJ" one of the most culturally important websites of its kind, read by hundreds of thousands of fans, musicians and industry figures every month.
You Can Help
To expand our coverage even further and develop new means to foster jazz discovery and connectivity we need your help. You can become a sustaining member for a modest $20 and in return, we'll immediately hide those pesky ads plus provide access to future articles for a full year. This winning combination will vastly improve your AAJ experience and allow us to vigorously build on the pioneering work we first started in 1995. So enjoy an ad-free AAJ experience and help us remain a positive beacon for jazz by making a donation today.
We sent a confirmation message to . Look for it, then click the link to activate your account. If you don’t see the email in your inbox, check your spam, bulk or promotions folder.
Eddie taught jazz history at Loyola Marymount University and was the producer/host of The Jazz Journey, a weekly radio/internet program on KXLU 88.9FM Los Angeles