Lee Morgan - Caramba! 1968

Lee Morgan - Caramba 1968
BST 84289

This was one of the most obscure of all Lee Morgan Blue Note albums. A transitional effort that finds the trumpeter gradually moving beyond hard bop into more modal music, the date starts out with the surprisingly derivative title cut which is very similar to Eddie Harris' "Listen Here." Of the other selections, "Soulita" has the catchiest melody while Cal Massey's slow ballad "A Baby's Smile" was previously unreleased. While Morgan and his fine rhythm section (pianist Cedar Walton, bassist Reggie Workman and drummer Billy Higgins) are in typically swinging form, Caramba is most notable for featuring the young Bennie Maupin. Sticking exclusively to tenor, Maupin (who would be much more distinctive within a year) mixes together Joe Henderson and Wayne Shorter in winning fashion.
By Scott Yanow, All Music Guide.

Lee Morgan- (Trumpet)
Bennie Maupin- (Tenor Sax)
Cedar Walton- (Piano)
Reggie Workman- (Bass)
Billy Higgins- (Drums)

A1. Caramba 12:20
A2. Suicide City 7:32
B1. Cunning Lee 6:07
B2. Soulita 5:33
B3. Helen's Ritual 6:23

:: Caramba! ::