The Jazz Messengers

The Profile

American jazz ensemble led by drummer Art Blakey, officially debuting in 1955; central to the development of hard bop and a training ground for many jazz musicians, led by Blakey until his death in 1990.

Key early personnel mentioned in the reviews include Horace Silver (piano), Hank Mobley (tenor sax), Kenny Dorham (trumpet) and Doug Watkins (double bass). Signature repertoire cited includes "Minor's Holiday", "Soft Winds", "Alone Together" and "Lady Bird". The group is noted as a defining hard bop 'school' under Art Blakey's leadership.

The available review highlights the Jazz Messengers' 1955 Cafe Bohemia performance and situates the group as a cornerstone of hard bop. It praises the band's energy, key solos, and Blakey's driving rhythm. The review recommends Volume 1 as a strong early document of the band.