Doin' the Thing

Dive into the vibrant world of jazz with "Doin' the Thing" by the Horace Silver Quintet, a captivating live album recorded in 1961 at the iconic Village Gate. This album is a testament to Horace Silver's mastery as a jazz pianist and his quintet's exceptional chemistry. The quintet, featuring Junior Cook on tenor saxophone, Blue Mitchell on trumpet, Gene Taylor on bass, and Roy Brooks on drums, delivers an electrifying performance that showcases their collective virtuosity and individual brilliance.

With a blend of hard bop, bebop, and soul jazz, "Doin' the Thing" offers a dynamic and engaging listening experience. The album opens with the infectious "Filthy McNasty," setting the stage for a journey through a variety of moods and tempos. Tracks like "Kiss Me Right" and "It Ain't S'posed to Be Like That" highlight the quintet's ability to blend soulful melodies with intricate improvisations, while "The Gringo / Cool Eyes - Theme" showcases their knack for creating atmospheric and evocative compositions.

Originally released on the Blue Note label, this album stands out as Horace Silver's first live date for Alfred Lion. The 2006 remastered edition by Rudy Van Gelder ensures that the audio quality is pristine, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the quintet's dynamic range and expressive playing. Whether you're a longtime fan of Horace Silver or a newcomer to his music, "Doin' the Thing" is a must-listen that captures the essence of a legendary jazz ensemble in their prime.