Sharp Edge

"Sharp Edge" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary trumpeter Howard McGhee, released in 2011 under the 1201 MUSIC label. This album is a testament to McGhee's mastery of bebop and hard bop, genres that he helped shape during his illustrious career. With a runtime of 40 minutes, "Sharp Edge" is a concise yet powerful collection of eight tracks that showcase McGhee's virtuosic playing and his deep understanding of jazz.

The album opens with the title track, "Sharp Edge," a blazing bebop number that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Other standout tracks include "Shades of Blue," a melancholic ballad that highlights McGhee's lyrical side, and "Cool," a mid-tempo groove that swings effortlessly. "The Day After" is a haunting piece that features McGhee's trumpet in a more introspective light, while "Topside" and "Arbee" are up-tempo burners that showcase his technical prowess. The album closes with "My Delight" and "Ill Wind," two tracks that demonstrate McGhee's versatility as a musician.

"Sharp Edge" is a must-listen for any jazz fan, particularly those who appreciate the bebop and hard bop genres. McGhee's playing is as fiery and inventive as ever, and the supporting cast of musicians on the album are top-notch. The album was recorded in 1961 and originally released in 1966, but this 2011 reissue features remastered audio that brings out the best in the music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Howard McGhee or a newcomer to his music, "Sharp Edge" is sure to impress.

Howard McGhee, a pioneering figure in the bebop jazz scene, was one of the first American trumpeters to embrace and master this revolutionary style. Born in 1918, McGhee stood alongside legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Fats Navarro, known for his remarkable technical prowess, including lightning-fast fingering and the ability to hit impressively high notes. His influence on younger bebop trumpeters was significant, with Fats Navarro himself citing McGhee as an inspiration. McGhee's versatility allowed him to play with both speed and sweetness, from high to low registers, making him a standout in the bebop era. Despite his talent, McGhee's contributions are often overlooked, but his impact on jazz is undeniable. His discography, spanning from the mid-1940s to the 1950s, offers a rich exploration of bebop and hard bop, showcasing his unique voice and technical brilliance.