S Make It, recorded in 1964 and released the following year on Limelight, captures drummer Art Blakey leading a transitional edition of his Jazz Messengers. At the time, Blakey was navigating the departure of several key members and searching for a new configuration, resulting in a distinctive short-lived lineup within the band's long history.
The sextet featured Lee Morgan on trumpet, Curtis Fuller on trombone, John Gilmore on tenor saxophone, John Hicks on piano, and Victor Sproles on bass. Together, they delivered a hard-driving program that reflects both Blakey's established hard-bop intensity and the shifting personnel landscape of the mid-1960s Messengers. Blakey's drumming anchors the session throughout with the galvanic rhythmic command that defined his leadership across decades.
The Verve Vault series is always mastered from analog tapes and pressed on 180g vinyl at Optimal.
Faith
'S Make It
Waltz For Ruth
One For Gamal
Little Hughie
Olympia
Lament For Stacy
