The Freedom Rider

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  1961

  James

  Named after the civil rights activists challenging segregation in the American South, the album carries a sense of urgency and purpose. Lee Morgan and Wayne Shorter are both in spectacular form. The title track combines hard-bop drive with a deeper emotional resonance than many contemporary recordings. Blakey's drumming is explosive without overwhelming the ensemble. The music reflects a changing America while remaining firmly rooted in jazz tradition. It's one of the most powerful Messenger albums.