Joe Harriott Quintet – The Rake’s Progress – At The BBC

DescriptionControversial, creative and captivating, Joe Harriott’s music was among the finest to emerge from the dynamic British jazz scene of the early to late ‘60s. Freeform and Abstract, the two albums the Jamaican saxophonist recorded in that period are recognized as landmarks, and these BBC sessions from 1964 and 1966, which see him lead bands that include fellow prime movers such as trumpeters Ian Carr and Shake Keane, and pianists Pat Smythe and Michael Garrick are an invaluable record of the development of an artist who found his own innovative path way ahead of his time.Sleeve notes by Kevin Le GendreRANDB084rhythmandbluesrecords.co.uk‘the material included on this album was, as far as I know, not released previously anywhere, it is worth its weight in gold. Warmly recommended to all British Jazz fans anywhere on this planet.’ Adam Baruch‘…committed and spirited across the very nearly 80 minutes of multi-hued, brash and effusive bop.’ Russell Newmark – The Beat’79’59 minutes of brilliance.’  Michael Wilkinson