Art Blakey
Moanin'

Art Blakey is an American artist born in 1919 and passed away in 1990. He is a drummer whose style contributed to the growth of the jazz-hard bop genre. Blakey is the founder, among others, of the Jazz Messengers, with Horace Silver.

His most significant album, whose pieces have set standards and become indestructible classics, is Moanin' from 1958, Blue Note label. Eight discursive and electrifying tracks, rather long,  symbol of strong personality and class.   The album opens, curiously, with the chatter of the musicians deciding on what to do. It slides into "Moanin'" probably Blakey's most well-known track: the tenor sax-piano crossover is delightful. It follows with "Are You Real": a festive, band-like, cheerful, sunny, scratchy piece with a classical imprint and a heart made of compelling improvisation. "Along Came Betty" is somewhat sad and introspective with a very refined sound. "The Drum Thunder Suite" is tempestuous, dark, menacing and substantially emphasizes the "brutal and mean" style so beloved by the energetic Blakey. The piece is truly significant and engaging. "Blues March" is drumming and rolling, suitable for a parade, fully victorious as the soundtrack for some festive event. Magical. "Come Rain or Come Shine" is splendidly refined by a classic and cinematic theme. Music to be transported by, that makes you travel with the imagination, with a saloon-style piano effect and a rich and rustling sound. It all concludes with a B-side of "Moanin'

 Jazz for true connoisseurs. A work, now reissued and remastered, with a winning, classic mood, with wonderfully structured pieces. Wise and flavorful jazz still incredibly fresh. It will appear to you as a best. In reality, the discography is immense, and the collaborations during Blakey's career have been numerous. It should not be forgotten.