HERBIE HANCOCK : Cantaloupe Island (1964)

R.I.P. Freddie Hubbard (Apr. 7, 1938 - Dec. 29, 2008)

Freddie Hubbard, who died (complications of a heart attack) aged 70, was one of the finest and most influential jazz trumpeters of his age during a career that spanned half a century.

Although most at home in the genre of hard bop, in which he made his name in the 1960s, Hubbard was never afraid to experiment – he collaborated with, among others, Ornette Coleman, John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins – and in the 1970s he moved into rock-influenced fusion and later funk before finally returning to his roots. His playing was notable for its quicksilver exuberance and its fine range of tone and pace.

This guy was one of the greatest jazz trumpet players, on par with Miles, and he's appeared on too many albums to mention. One notable session, however, is his performance on Herbie Hancock's "Cantaloupe Island". This track was funky before 'funk' was invented; it also boasted an all-star lineup with greats Ron Carter and Tony Williams. The rest of the band soon joined Miles Davis as his second quintet in 1965. The song was revived by Us3 in the '90s (called "Cantaloop (Flip Fantasia)", and their album became Blue Note records best-selling disc of all time.

Song : "Cantaloupe Island" by Herbie Hancock
From the LP "EMPYREAN ISLES" (Blue Note) 1964

LINEUP :
Herbie Hancock : piano
Freddie Hubbard : cornet
Ron Carter : bass
Tony Williams : drums

Get it here : Cantaloupe Island