Released: 11/04/25
It was recorded earlier, in 1961 during Shorter's early years as a bandleader before his tenure with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers and later Miles Davis' Second Great Quintet. This album showcases Shorter's early compositional voice, blending intricate harmonies with expressive improvisation. His playing is energetic, and the interplay with Freddie Hubbard creates a rich and engaging dialogue. The compositions range from lyrical ballads (Moon of Manakoora) to more dynamic, rhythmically complex pieces (Powder Keg) and captures the transition between traditional hard bop and the more progressive post-bop sound that Shorter would help defne in the coming years.