Looking at the list of previous AOTWs, I noticed no Joe Henderson albums (at least none as a leader), so here we are.
I wouldn't necessarily call this 'definitve' Joe, but it came to mind for a couple of reasons. I like the palpable feeling of the live nature of this date. I like the disparity between Joe's edgier playing and the more straight ahead vibe of the trio. It's also fun to hear these guys stretch out on tunes that have become very standard jazz repertoire. So standard are some of these tunes (Autumn Leaves, Green Dolphin St., Four) that they don't get called these days on gigs and jam sessions, being deemed 'too common' by some players. This was recorded in 1968 at the Left Bank in Baltimore. Joe, who at this point had already released many of the sides that are better known today, isn't playing original tunes. It's not about laying out striking new compositions, it's about this working trio with a guest sitting in, and finding common ground for doing some blowing.
If you don't already have this side, I hope you enjoy it. If you have it, I hope you dust it off for another spin. I'm looking forward to the discussion.