this recording sounds excellent and the musicians are incredible. Not much to add.

In 1962, Freddie Hubbard was a full time member of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, but he still had enough time to record three solo albums -- "The Artistry of Freddie Hubbard" for the Impulse label, and "Here To Stay" and "Hub-Tones" for Blue Note. While the former two derive a lot of their sound from that unmistakable Messenger style, "Hub-Tones" draws it feel from two of Hubbard's collaborations from a few years earlier -- "Free Jazz" and "Ole Coltrane." On "Hub-Tones," Hubbard utilizes the paths of freedom forged by Ornette and 'Trane, but stays grounded to the classic Blue Note sound. Joining Freddie on this October '62 session are James Spaulding (who unfortunately was never given the chance to record his own album for Blue Note, but was an important contributor to Grant Green's "Solid," Bobby Hutcherson's "Components" and Wayne Shorter's "Schizophrenia" among others) on alto sax and flute, Herbie Hancock on piano, Reggie Workman on bass and Clifford Jarvis on drums. Hubbard made many great albums for Blue Note, and "Hub-Tones" is as good as any of them.

If you are a jazz fan this is one of those 'must have' albums that populates so many 'greatest albums' lists. Hub Tones is very enjoyable and very typical of Blue Note's esteemed 1950's and 60's output. "Prophet Jennings" and "Lament For Booker" are great tunes. Freddie sounds very warm and embracing in the latter especially. The back-up group here is solid as well, giving Freddie a solid foundation upon which to explore.

While this album is quite good, I can't quite place it at the highest level of Blue Note recordings. I've listened to it quite a bit since I purchased it and there seems to be something lacking. Don't ask me what that is, I'm not sure, but I can feel it. I still recommend this disc, I just can't lump it in with the best of the best.