Blue Mitchell - Stablemates

2006 CD reissue.

This previously hard to find album was made in Hollywood some two years before Blue's premature death from cancer on May 21st, 1979. It is a worthy component of the Mitchell discography, and Blue's playing here stacks up nicely against the best work of his classic Riverside and Blue Note periods. Blue's front line partner in the accomplished band assembled for the date was his friend, saxophonist Dick Spencer. The two knew each other well from time spent together in the Louie Bellson Band, where Dick was lead alto. The piano chair went to Victor Feldman, Blue's colleague in the Adderley band, by now a seasoned participant in the L.A. scene, some 20 years since his move from London. Also features John Heard and Dick Berk.