“Plays The Truth” is an album by Les McCann, recorded on February 4 and April 28, 1960, at United Recording Studios, Hollywood, and originally released on Pacific Jazz Records (PJ-2). The Jazz Workshop Vinyl reissue as a 180-gram audiophile LP (JW-083) revives this record with remastering that highlights the piano’s brilliance. The lineup features Les McCann (piano), Leroy Vinnegar (bass), and Ron Jefferson (drums). The album includes standards like On Green Dolphin Street and McCann’s originals, brimming with bluesy energy. The music is soul jazz with hard-bop roots, with McCann’s piano sparkling with swinging riffs, and the rhythm section providing a pulsing foundation. The Jazz Workshop reissue, limited to 500 copies, is prized for its warm, lively sound, capturing the California studio vibe. “Plays The Truth” is a vibrant record, showcasing McCann’s early talent.
Les McCann (September 23, 1935 – December 29, 2023) was an American jazz pianist, vocalist, and composer, a pioneer of soul jazz. Born in Lexington, Kentucky, he was self-taught, starting piano in his youth, inspired by gospel music and Erroll Garner. In the 1950s, McCann moved to Los Angeles, becoming a star of the local scene, blending jazz with blues and gospel motifs. His vibrant style and infectious improvisation made him a favorite among listeners. McCann recorded numerous albums, including the landmark Swiss Movement with Eddie Harris, and influenced funk-jazz development. Later, he taught and performed, leaving a vibrant legacy.
TRACKLIST
Side One:
1. Vakushna (Les McCann) 3:12
2. A Little 3/4 for God and Co. (Les McCann) 4:30
3. I’ll Remember April (DePaul-Johnston-Raye) 7:44
4. Fish This Week But Next Week Chitlings (Les McCann) 3:13
5. Little Girl from Casper (Les McCann) 2:47 *
Side Two:
1. How High the Moon (Hamilton-Lewis) 6:02
2. This Can’t Be Love (Rodgers-Hart) 3:19
3. For Carl Perkins (Leroy Vinnegar) 5:41
4. The Truth (Les McCann) 5:54
5. They Can’t Take Away from Me (G. & I. Gershwin) 2:42 *
(*) Bonus tracks not part of the original LP configuration
Personnel:
Les McCann (piano), Leroy Vinnegar (bass), Ron Jefferson (drums).
Recorded at United Recording Studios, Hollywood, February 4 & April 28 [*], 1960
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