Joyride [Bonus Tracks]

Read About This Recording

Stanley Turrentine always stood out from the crowd. Instantly recognizable within two notes, the tenor-saxophonist could play bebop, R&B and pop music while always sounding like himself. Much of his career, "Mr. T" preferred to perform hard bop and soul jazz, combining together swing with his own soulful approach.

Born in Pittsburgh in 1934, Turrentine picked up valuable experience in his early years playing with blues and R&B groups including being next to a young Ray Charles in Lowell Fulson's band and learning from Earl Bostic. He gained his initial attention in the jazz world as a member of the Max Roach Quintet in 1959-60 and in 1960 began recording as a leader for Blue Note. Other than appearing with all-star groups, Turrentine was a bandleader from then on.

Joyride, from 1965, has Turrentine accompanied by a big band arranged and conducted by Oliver Nelson plus pianist Herbie Hancock and guitarist Kenny Burrell, and he rises to the occasion. "River's Invitation" is a classic of its kind and, while most of the other material (other than "A Taste of Honey" and "I Wonder Where Our Love Has Gone") is obscure, Turrentine's playing is heard in prime form. He displays his ability to caress melodies, uplifting themes by infusing them with his own brand of soul.

Stanley Turrentine recorded many fine sets during his career. Joyride is an excellent example of his artistry.

—Scott Yanow

Contents

Remastered!

River's Invitation; I Wonder Where Our Love Has Gone; Little Sheri; Mattie T.; Bayou; A Taste of Honey; Gravy Train*; A Kettle of Fish*.

(*Bonus tracks.)

Stanley Turrentine, Tenor Sax; Ernie Royal, Snooky Young, Trumpets; Clark Terry, Trumpet/Flugelhorn; Jimmy Cleveland, Henry Coker, J.J. Johnson, Trombones; Phil Woods, Alto Sax/Clarinet; Jerry Dodgion, Flute/Alto Sax/Clarinet/Piccolo; Budd Johnson, Saxes/Clarinet; Bob Ashton, Tenor Sax/Clarinet; Danny Bank, Clarinet/Baritone Sax/Flute; Kenny Burrell, Guitar; Herbie Hancock, Piano; Bob Cranshaw, Bass Guitars; Grady Tate, Drums; Oliver Nelson, Arranger/Conductor.