Off To The Races

"Off To The Races" is a captivating jazz album by the versatile trumpeter and composer Donald Byrd, originally released in 1958 and remastered in 2006 as part of the Rudy Van Gelder Edition series. This reissue on Blue Note Records presents six tracks that blend hard bop, jazz funk, and soul jazz, showcasing Byrd's exceptional talent and adaptability across various jazz genres.

The album features a mix of original compositions by Donald Byrd and notable contributions from Sonny Rollins, along with a standard. Tracks like "Lover Come Back To Me" and "When Your Lover Has Gone" offer a soulful and melodic experience, while "Sudwest Funk" and the title track "Off To The Races" bring a lively and energetic groove. "Paul's Pal" and "Down Tempo" round out the collection with their unique rhythms and Byrd's distinctive trumpet playing.

With a duration of just over 37 minutes, "Off To The Races" is a concise yet dynamic journey through the sounds of mid-20th century jazz. The remastered audio quality ensures that every note and nuance of Byrd's performance is crisp and clear, making it a delight for both longtime fans and new listeners. This album is a testament to Donald Byrd's enduring influence and innovation in the world of jazz.