Herman, Woody
Raven Speaks
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

Sealed 1972 Original. Cut Corner. Label Variant Unknown. Features Pat Martino, Frank Tiberi, Gregory Herbert, Harold Garrett, Al Porcino, Charles Davis, Harold Danko And Others. "Some Of Woody Herman's Funkiest Jams From The 70's. The Band Scolds "Fat Mama" In The Opening Herbie Hancock Tune, One In Which I Am Sure Herbie Is Quite Proud. The Band Touches Hancock Again With Their Rockin' Rendition Of "Watermelon Man", Another Tune Worth The Purchase. The Opening Flute Melody Is Tremendous, As Is The Speed Of This Tune. Other Solid Ballad Contributions From The "Summer Of 42" Theme And The Quicker Paced "Alone Again (Naturally)" Add Depth To This Up Tempo Set. Lastly, But Certainly Not Least, Is The Quintessential "Reunion At Newport 1972". The Timing And Intricacies Of This Arrangement Is The Primary Piece On "The Raven Speaks" And Is The Reason I Come Back To The Album Often. The Arrangement Is Sheer Complexity And Tempo Interlaced With The Deft Talents Of Woody's Core Band. A High Point Of The Talented Musicians And Their Ability To Swing Fast And Loose And Absolutely Kill It On Vinyl. I Recommend For "Reunion At Newport" Alone, A Must Have For Woody Herman Aficionados." All music Guide - Scott Dettman.