Bobby Hutcherson – San Francisco (1994 Blue Note US Reissue Vinyl LP)

Originally released in 1971 by Blue Note Records, San Francisco captures vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson and tenor saxophonist Harold Land exploring the crossroads of hard bop, modal jazz, and emerging electric fusion. Originally recorded in 1970 and produced by Duke Pearson, the album marks one of Blue Note’s most soulful and forward-thinking sessions of the era.

With Joe Sample on piano and Fender Rhodes, John Williams on acoustic and electric bass, and Mickey Roker on drums, the ensemble blends acoustic warmth with electric textures, yielding a sound both modern and deeply grooving. Tracks like Goin’ Down South and Ummh simmer with funky propulsion, while Jazz and Procession showcase Hutcherson’s signature sense of harmony and space. The closing track, A Night in Barcelona, drifts into lyrical reflection — the perfect coda to an album of rhythmic sophistication and melodic beauty.

This 1994 reissue faithfully preserves the clarity and depth of the original recording, pressed on high-quality vinyl with the crisp, wide stereo imaging that defines Blue Note’s golden era. San Francisco remains a standout in Hutcherson’s discography — vibrant, soulful, and endlessly listenable.

Vinyl: EX
Sleeve: EX

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