This CD reissue has two unrelated early sessions from pianists
Hampton Hawes and
Freddie Redd.
Hawes, heard in a quartet with vibraphonist
Larry Bunker, bassist Clarence Jones and drummer
Larence Marable, already ranked as one of the top bop-based pianists in 1952. He performs eight straight-ahead numbers (five bop standards and three originals like "Hamp's Paws"), including a two-minute version of "Move" that lives up to its name.
Redd, who recorded much less during his longer career, stretches out a bit more on four numbers (including three originals) in a trio with bassist
John Ore and drummer
Ron Jefferson. Excellent music, easily recommended to bop collectors. ~ Scott Yanow