MJT + III

In 1957, drummer Walter Perkins formed a quintet, the MJT + 3, that recorded four albums before breaking up in 1962. This CD reissue has the second record, and the first with the group's most famous lineup of trumpeter Willie Thomas, altoist Frank Strozier, pianist Harold Mabern, bassist Bob Cranshaw, and the leader on drums. The original five selections are joined by an alternate take and two shorter singles versions of songs. Mabern and Strozier contributed originals, and the group also performs Ray Bryant's "Sleepy" and "The Whiffenpoof Song." The band's style is not all that unusual, essentially hard bop, but it was well played and the group had its own sound. A fine example of MJT + 3's work.