Lou Takes Off is an album by American jazz saxophonist Lou Donaldson recorded on December 15, 1957 and released on Blue Note the following year. The sextet features brass section Donald Byrd and Curtis Fuller and rhythm section Sonny Clark, Jamil Nasser and Art Taylor.Lou Donaldson discography accessed December 3, 2009.
Background According to Donaldson, Blue Note initially didn't like any of the album, "the conga drums or the new musicians."2008 liner notes by Bob Blumenthal
Reception The AllMusic review by Lee Bloom states, "This recording marks a period in his development prior to a stylistic shift away from bop and toward a stronger rhythm and blues emphasis... Overall, Lou Takes Off breaks no new musical ground, but it is a solid, swinging session of high-caliber playing.Bloom, L. [ Allmusic Review] accessed December 3, 2009.
Track listing
Personnel
Musicians Lou Donaldson – alto saxophone Donald Byrd – trumpet Curtis Fuller – trombone Sonny Clark – piano Jamil Nasser (born George Joyner) – bass Art Taylor – drums
Technical personnel Alfred Lion – producer Rudy Van Gelder – recording engineer Reid Miles – design Francis Wolff – photography
References