Greatness of Prestige Reissue LP Series by Toshiba – Jackie McLean Jackie’s Pal
I love this album.
Jackie McLean Jackie's Pal Prestige
Originally it was released in 1956. As you can see the picture on the jacket, McLean featured Bill Hardman, old time friend trumpeter.
They both play well in this album.
I can say that there is no new approach like McLean was doing on Blue Note. But I love this authentic playing style.
McLean and Hardman joined the Jazz Messengers of Art Blakey in 1958 and released A Night In Tunisia on VIK (I already talked about it right?).
I believe that as McLean was playing on Prestige and some other minor labels in the late 50's, he developed his own style before he joined Blue Note. So this album was recorded during that transition time for him.
Anyway, this album is great and underrated.
Talking about this particular reissue, LPJ 70049 was manufactured in 1974 by Toshiba EMI. That is the time that popular LNJ series of Blue Note were also manufactured. No doubt that the same mastering engineers were making these LP series.
Nowadays, many Jazz collectors know the greatness of LNJ series of Blue Note for the sound quality and pressing quality. But not these LP series of Prestige. These LP series are underrated!
Victor Music Japan reissued Prestige later on with SMJ, VIJ, and VIJJ series. They are great for sure. But, I really recommend you to try these LP series of Toshiba as well!
