Sixth Sense

Personnel: Lee Morgan (trumpet); Jackie McLean (alto saxophone); Frank Mitchell (tenor saxophone); Cedar Walton (piano); Harold Mabern (bass instrument); Billy Higgins (drums).
Liner Note Authors: Ed Williams; Bob Blumenthal.
Recording information: Van Gelder Studios, Englewood, NJ (11/10/1967); Van Gelder Studios, Englewood, NJ (09/13/1968).
This rare Lee Morgan Blue Note date from 1968 is one of the few discs by the legendary trumpeter that didn't see a large following when it was originally released. Unlike the colossal THE SIDEWINDER, this session is subtler in its approach to the funky sounds that Morgan had ushered into existence a few years earlier. Still, the masterful playing of stars like Morgan, Jackie McLean, Cedar Walton, and Billy Higgins, coupled with some exceptionally creative tunes, make this a worthwhile jewel in the Lee Morgan treasure chest. Also significant is the rare appearance of tenor man Frank Mitchell, who had appeared briefly with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers.
Morgan and company set the groove early with the bossa nova-tinged title track. Higgins swings hard on Morgan's "Short Count," which gives the trumpeter and his guests plenty of breathing room for some healthy solos. The jazzy rock shadings of "Psychedelic" are no doubt a reflection of the coming trend that would hit full swing in the '70s. Also included here are three tracks from an unreleased session that feature pianist Harold Mabern in place of Walton. Other highlight cuts include the bouncing "Afreaka" and Morgan's intricate "Anti Climax."