Charlie Haden
The Golden Number

★★★★

I've only really listened to Haden as a sideman, where I've seen him truly shine. But digging deeper into his own catalog, this album seems to be a great representation of his rhythmic ability and skill as a bassist. I'm a real sucker for duets too so this really hits the spot. The first track with Don Cherry is a great starter, especially with that almost religious flute playing towards the end. Haden leads the entire track though with a catchy bass line, and not surprisingly he is truly at the forefront on this entire album.  Shepp comes in at about 4 minutes into the second track, but there's so much he is able to express. Much like an Ayleresque form of emotion, and it really makes it the centerpiece of this album. The Hampton Hawes tracks is just alright, I don't think he really fit in that well with the others featured, mostly because of his very melodic cool style of playing. The Ornette track is good too, really pensive and mournful. But I feel kind of let down that he's not playing sax but trumpet instead, there was a lot  more potential in that song. 

Favorite Song: Shepp's Way

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