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Two real "finds" among the Label M "Live at the Left Bank" Baltimore concert releases are the two made by Freddie Hubbard, now noticeable for his absence from jazz but, in the sixties, a trumpet icon considered the only possible rival for Miles Davis's status as king of that instrument. Jam Gems, from a 1965 date, has the virtue of pairing Hubbard with Jimmy Heath, and the ambient concert sounds evoke memories of Bird and Diz jamming their hearts out. "Jam Gems" suffers from an inadequate house rhythm section, and the sense that this was a hastily put together session, but the potency of Hubbard and Heath diminish those flaws.
Much more complete, and innovative, was Hubbard's 1967 return to the Left Bank, captured on Fastball. Here, he was accompanied by Bennie Maupin on reeds and a stellar rhythm section, with Philadelphian pianist Kenny Barron tasteful and articulate, and drummer Freddie Waits a distinctive voice. Hubbard is also more expressive and expansive, not confining himself to bop structures but also following the lead of Davis in occasional explorations of modal jazz configurations. Hubbard showcases his high-tempo bursts and a sharp, if not especially inventive, improvisatory approach, and generates a cooking session. This is great live jazz.
— Jules Epstein, February 2001
Release Date: 30 January 2001
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last update 20 March 2001