Drum Great Louis Hayes: "Louis Hayes"

Tonight's Jazz Feature is the recording debut of drummer Louis Hayes. It was recorded in April of 1960 for the Vee-Jay Records a short lived label owned by African-Americans that produced a number of essential albums. This date was Louis' first under his name and he was only 23. Hayes was born in Detroit on May 31,1937 and just celebrated his 87th Birthday. He is well and still plays engagements. Young Louis picked the tunes and the very worthy sidemen here beginning with his first mentor, the great Yusef Lateef who plays tenor saxophone exclusively here. Nat Adderley is a dynamo on cornet, Barry Harris is on piano and Sam Jones is on bass. Jones and Hayes make for one of the finest rhythm sections in Modern Jazz. The tunes are all originals: one by Yusef Lateef, one by Cannonball Adderley,, one by Sonny Red, one by Nat Adderley and two by Barry Harris. A well paced and swingin' album with great playing by all and inspired by the driving beat and good taste of Louis Hayes. This is the real deal!