The Nat Adderley Quintet's album Workin is a masterful display of jazz musicianship. Led by the legendary trumpeter and composer Nat Adderley, the quintet delivers a set of hard-swinging tunes that showcase the group's tight interplay and improvisational prowess.
The album opens with the title track "Workin", a propulsive and bluesy number that sets the tone for the rest of the record. The quintet's rhythm section, consisting of bassist Sam Jones and drummer Louis Hayes, provides a rock-solid foundation for Adderley's trumpet and the saxophone of his brother Cannonball Adderley.
Throughout the album, the quintet explores a range of moods and styles, from the soulful ballad "I've Got A Crush On You" to the uptempo burner "Scrambled Eggs". The musicianship on display is consistently impressive, with each member of the quintet given ample opportunity to shine.
One standout track is "Sack O' Woe", a bluesy number that features Nat Adderley's trumpet trading fiery solos with Cannonball Adderley's saxophone. The rhythm section lays down a driving groove that propels the tune forward, and the result is a thrilling display of jazz virtuosity.