Lee Morgans 1968 albumTaruwhich wouldnt be first released until 1980 as part of the LT Seriesfound the trumpeter at a crossroads exploring a variety of styles. The band on this outstanding date is notable for several reasons including the elevating presence of guitaristGeorge Bensonwho delivers inspired solos throughout. The session also marked Morgans first recorded collaboration with tenor saxophonistBennie Maupinwho would play an integral role on future Morgan albums includingCaramba!andLive at the Lighthouse. Rounding out the sextet were pianistJohn Hicks, bassistReggie Workman, and the ever-inspiriting drummerBilly Higgins. The six-song set covered a range of stylistic ground including modal jazz (Avotcja One), hard-charging post-bop (Get Yourself Together), beautiful balladry (Haeschen and Taru, Whats Wrong With You?), gospel-tinged numbers (Dee Lawd), and funky boogaloos (Durem).

Blue Note Tone Poet Series

The Tone Poet Audiophile Vinyl Reissue Series was born out of Blue Note President Don Was admiration for the exceptional audiophile Blue Note LP reissues presented by Music Matters. Was brought Joe Harley, a.k.a. the Tone Poet, on board to curate and supervise a series of reissues from the Blue Note family of labels.

Extreme attention to detail has been paid to getting these right in every conceivable way, from the jacket graphics and printing quality to superior LP mastering (direct from the master tapes) by Kevin Gray to superb 180g audiophile LP pressings by Record Technology Inc. Every aspect of these Tone Poet releases is done to the highest possible standard. It means that you will never find a superior version. This is IT.

This stereo Tone Poet Vinyl Edition was produced by Joe Harley, mastered by Kevin Gray (Cohearent Audio) from the original analog master tapes, pressed on 180g vinyl at Record Technology Inc. (RTI), and packaged in a deluxe gatefold tip-on jacket.

Tracklist:
A1: Avotcja One
A2: Haeschen
A3: Dee Lawd

B1: Get Yourself Together
B2: Taru, What's Wrong With You?
B3: Durem