Jackie McLean – Demon's Dance

Jackie McLean’s music weaved in and out of the avant-garde throughout the 1960s with the brilliant 1963  One Step Beyond and Destination… Out!, eventually leading to the full-throated free jazz of 1967's New and Old Gospel (featuring Ornette Coleman on trumpet) and ‘Bout Soul.

Demon’s Dance, which was recorded in December 1967, found the alto saxophonist maintaining a decidedly post-bop edge with a spirited quintet comprised of trumpeter Woody Shaw, pianist La Mont Johnson, bassist Scott Holt, and drummer Jack DeJohnette.

The six-song set highlights include McLean’s churning title track, Shaw’s tuneful bossa “Sweet Love of Mine,” and Massey’s brightly swinging “Message from Trane” in tribute to the great John Coltrane who had passed away early that year.

But the album’s most striking feature may be the unforgettable cover artwork by Mati Klarwein whose work also graced the cover of Miles Davis’ Bitches Brew.

Blue Note Tone Poets Series.

Tracklist:
        Demon's Dance    7:06
        Toyland    5:21
        Boo Ann's Grand    6:53
        Sweet Love Of Mine    6:01
        Floogeh    5:19
        Message From Trane    5:29