Recorded in 1967 but not released until 1980 as part of the LT Series,Hank Mobley’sThird Seasonwas a typically high-caliber late-’60s hard bop outing by the tenor saxophonist with a heavy focus on his own original compositions. Mobley had expanded his palette the year before onA Slice of the Top, an octet date featuring arrangements by Duke Pearson, butThird Seasonfelt like a return to a looser, small group feel despite the fact that it still featured a 7-piece band. Joining Mobley here are alto saxophonistJames Spaulding, trumpeterLee Morgan, guitaristSonny Greenwich, pianistCedar Walton, bassistWalter Booker, and drummerBilly Higgins. The six-song set includes Morgan’s blues “The Steppin’ Stone,” but otherwise presents a diverse collection of Mobley’s originals including the hard-charging opener “An Aperitif,” laid-back swinger “Don’t Cry, Just Sigh,” breezy “Boss Bossa,” gospel-tinged boogaloo “Give Me That Feelin’,” and the intricate title track.

Format / LP
Released / 03/07/2025
Catalogue / BLUN-124079
Barcode / 602455421463
Artist / Hank Mobley
Label / Blue Note Records
Genre / Jazz