“MJT+3” is an album by the MJT+3 quintet, recorded on May 12, 1960, at Universal Recorders, Chicago, and originally released on Vee-Jay Records (VJLP 3012). The Jazz Workshop Vinyl reissue as a 180-gram audiophile LP (JW-097) revives this record with remastering that highlights the horns and piano’s brilliance. The album includes originals by the members, such as Love for Sale and No Land’s Man, plus standards. The music is hard bop with bluesy and swinging elements, with Thomas’s trumpet and Strozier’s saxophone crafting a vibrant dialogue, and Mabern adding melodic chords. The Jazz Workshop reissue, limited to 500 copies, is prized for its clean, dynamic sound, capturing Chicago’s atmosphere. “MJT+3″ is a lively record, showcasing the quintet’s talent and hard-bop contribution.
MJT+3, or Modern Jazz Two Plus Three, was a Chicago-based jazz quintet active in the late 1950s to early 1960s, known for its vibrant hard bop. The group featured Willie Thomas (trumpet), Frank Strozier (alto saxophone), Harold Mabern (piano), Bob Cranshaw (bass), and Walter Perkins (drums). Formed in Chicago, MJT+3 drew inspiration from local traditions and groups like Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. Their style blended swinging rhythms with melodic improvisations, distinguishing them on the Chicago scene. The group recorded several albums for Vee-Jay Records, leaving a mark on hard-bop history.
TRACKLIST
Side One:
1. Branching Out (Harold Mabern) 6:58
2. Lil’ Abner (Willie Thomas) 4:10
3. Don’t Ever Throw My Love Away (Frank Strozier) 9:05
Side Two:
1. Raggity Man (Willie Thomas) 6:25
2. To Sheila (Frank Strozier) 4:53
3. Love For Sale (Cole Porter) 3:56
Personnel:
Willie Thomas (trumpet), Frank Strozier (alto sax), Harold Mabern (piano), Bob Cranshaw (bass), Walter Perkins (drums).
Recorded at Universal Recorders, Chicago, on May 12, 1960
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