Tim Hagans and Marcus Printup: Hubsongs

Lest We Forget: Freddie Hubbard is not only one of the major figures in the lineage of the trumpet, a direct spiritual descendant of King Oliver who helped advance the language of the instrument through the first throes of the New Thing, but a gifted composer as well. Worth Remembering: Marcus Printup and Tim Hagans are hot hands on the horn, with distinctive voices and an instinct for incorporating the tradition without wallowing in it-and they’re both Blue Note artists. Take these two facts, blend in the catalytic thinking of Bruce Lundvall and Bob Belden, cook at various tempos, and out pops this CD. Concept albums and tribute records are too often overdone, but Belden had the inspiration to involve Hubbard as producer, contributing arrangements as well as his ears to the sessions. The hope is that the pairing, along with the presence of the master, will drive the proceedings to a higher level. It works-thanks as well to the work of Benny Green on piano, Peter Washington on bass and Kenny Washington on drums, with guest appearances from altoist Vincent Herring and tenorman Javon Jackson.

Originally Published April 1, 1998