Two full LPs are combined on this single CD. Both dates feature trumpeter
Kenny Dorham and altoist
Jackie McLean (two very compatible players) although the rhythm sections (pianist
Bobby Timmons or
Walter Bishop, bassist
Teddy Smith or
Leroy Vinnegar and drummer
J.C. Moses or
Art Taylor) differ between the two sessions.
McLean was beginning to look forward and be influenced by the avant-garde; the passion he puts into his tone on such tunes as "Smile," "Beautiful Love," "It Could Happen to You" and "Lover Man" is memorable.
Dorham was able to keep up with the times during this era and his three compositions (particularly "El Matador" and "Una Mas") add a lot to the music. This generous CD is worth picking up as an example of veteran players stretching the boundaries of hard bop.