Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers - Moanin’ (1958/2009) [SACD]

Review by Michael G. Nastos: Art Blakey’s classic Blue Note album, Moanin’, has seen more than its share of reissuing & modified packaging since its initial release in 1958. This SACD edition (which has no reference to the title on the front booklet cover, yet retains the original artwork & music) features an alternate take of the title track, & a small vocal clip of Lee Morgan & Rudy Van Gelder conversing. Other than that, its an enhanced audio version of some of the greatest music Blakey produced in the studio with arguably his very best band. While most fans will already have this material, it is the audiophile jazz lover who will appreciate the digitally reproduced depth of field & sharply accented sound quality they can now hear from an analogue recording done some 50 years prior. There are 3 tracks that are immortal & will always stand the test of time. The title selection is a pure tuneful melody stewed in a bluesy shuffle penned by pianist Bobby Timmons, while tenor saxophonist Benny Golson’s classy, slowed “Along Came Betty” & the static, militaristic “Blues March” will always have a home in the repertoire of every student or professional jazz band. “Are You Real?” has the most subtle of melody lines, & “Drum Thunder Suite” has Blakey’s quick blasting tom-tom-based rudiments reigning on high as the horns sigh, leading to hard bop. “Come Rain Or Come Shine” is the piece that commands the most attention, a highly modified, lilting arrangement where the accompanying staggered, staccato rhythms contrast the light-hearted refrains. Certainly a complete & wholly satisfying album, Moanin’ ranks with the very best of Blakey & what modern jazz offered in the late ’50s & beyond.