Gene Russell

The first album released from the most sought-after label, bar none, among jazz collectors! Black Jazz was started by keyboardist / producer Gene Russell for Dick Schory's Ovation Records. Active from only 1971 to 1975, and reputed to be the first jazz label started by an African-American since Sunshine Records in 1921, Black Jazz sought to expand minds as well as hearts, releasing spiritual, socially conscious music that explored such burgeoning genres of the era as funk, soul jazz, and free jazz. New Directions set the tone for the entire label with its modal and soul jazz explorations.

PERSONNEL:

• Henry Franklin - bass
• Steve Clover - drums
• Tony Williams - conga
• Gene Russell - piano
• Larry Gales - (on A1 & B4)

Probably Los Angeles, c. 1971

TRACKS:

• SIDE A
• A1. Black Orchid
• A2. Hitting The Jug
• A3. Willow Weep For Me
• A4. Listen Here

• SIDE B
• B1. On Green Dolphin Street
• B2. Silver’s Serenade
• B3. My Cherie Amour
• B4. Making Bread