posted: 2024-06-23 Soul Route The Milt Jackson Quartet

Vibraphonist Milt Jackson recorded quite extensively during his decade with Norman Granz’s Pablo label. This particular release is most notable for helping launch the comeback of pianist Gene Harris who had been in obscurity ever since he ended his days with The Three Sounds. Harris’s soulful style and expertise with blues fit in perfectly with Milt Jackson’s approach and (with fine backup from bassist Ray Brown and drummer Mickey Roker) they play some typically joyful music on some blues, standards and ballads.

Scott Yanow, AllMusic

A set that definitely moves along the Soul Route promised in the title – thanks to great vibes from Milt Jackson, and a mix of electric and acoustic piano from Gene Harris! Harris here has none of the hoke of some of his Concord sides – and instead, slides in alongside Jackson to give him some of his most soulful backing of the Pablo years – all with a sound that’s almost more mid ’70s soul jazz than you’d guess from the date of the record! Other players include Ray Brown on bass and Mickey Roker on drums – and titles include “Soul Route”, “Blues For Gene”, “Sittin In The Sandtrap”, and “Ne-Afterglow”.

Dusty Groove