Abbey Lincoln

180 GRAM VINYL

Straight Ahead is one of Abbey Lincoln's greatest recordings. It is a testament to the credibility of her very honest music (and her talents) that Lincoln's sidemen on this date include the immortal tenor saxophonist Coleman Hawkins (who takes a memorable solo on "Blue Monk"), Eric Dolphy on flute and alto, trumpeter Booker Little (whose melancholy tone is very important in the ensembles), pianist Mal Waldron, and drummer Max Roach. Highpoints include "When Malindy Sings," "Blue Monk," Billie Holiday's "Left Alone," and "African Lady.

PERSONNEL:

• Abbey Lincoln - (vocals)
• Booker Little - (trumpet)
• Julian Priester - (trombone)
• Coleman Hawkins, Walter Benton - (tenor sax)
• Eric Dolphy - (reeds)
• Mal Waldron - (piano)
• Art Davis - (bass)
• Max Roach - (drums)

New York City, 22nd February 1961

TRACKS:

• SIDE A
• A1. Straight Ahead
• A2. When Malindy Sings
• A3. In The Red

• SIDE B
• B1. Blue Monk
• B2. Left Alone
• B3. Africian Lady
• B4. Retribution