Straight Ahead

Straight Ahead

This is one of vocalist Abbey Lincoln's greatest recordings, originally released in 1961. It's a testament to the credibility of her very honest music (and her talents) that Lincoln's sidemen on this date include the immortal tenor saxophonist Coleman Hawkins (who takes a memorable solo on <i>Blue Monk</i>), Eric Dolphy on flute and alto, trumpeter Booker Little (whose melancholy tone is very important in the ensemble), pianist Mal Waldron, and drummer Max Roach. Highpoints include <i>When Malindy Sings</i>, <i>Blue Monk</i>, Billie Holiday's <i>Left Alone</i>, and <i>African Lady</i>.