"Three Shades of Blue" is the final studio album from jazz saxophonist Johnny Hodges, released in 1970 under Ace Records. This cool jazz and swing music collection is a testament to Hodges' masterful playing and his ability to blend genres seamlessly. The album features a stellar lineup, including vocalist Leon Thomas and arranger Oliver Nelson, along with other notable musicians like Quentin Jackson and Jerome Richardson.
The ten-track album spans a diverse range of styles, from the bluesy "Empty Ballroom Blues" to the upbeat "Rockin' In Rhythm," showcasing Hodges' versatility and virtuosity. The album also includes compositions by Duke Ellington, such as "Echoes of Harlem" and "Creole Love Call," highlighting Hodges' deep connection to the Ellington orchestra, where he spent much of his career.
With insightful liner notes by Nat Hentoff, "Three Shades of Blue" offers a rich listening experience that captures the essence of Hodges' later work. The album's title track, "Three Shades of Blue," along with tracks like "Disillusion Blues" and "Yearning," delve into the bluesier side of Hodges' repertoire, while "Welcome to New York" and "Black, Brown And Beautiful" showcase his ability to infuse social commentary into his music. At just over 40 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful representation of Johnny Hodges' enduring legacy in jazz.
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