Blue 'N' Groovy Vol.2 / Mostly Modal

Blue 'N' Groovy Vol.2 / Mostly Modal

A deep and sophisticated exploration of modal jazz, hard bop, and groove-driven improvisation, Blue ’N’ Groovy Vol. 2 / Mostly Modal showcases the adventurous spirit of the classic Blue Note Records catalogue during one of jazz’s most creatively fertile periods. Blending hypnotic modal frameworks with soulful rhythms and exploratory soloing, the compilation captures artists pushing beyond traditional chord structures into more open and atmospheric territory.

Featuring legendary musicians including Hank Mobley, Lee Morgan, McCoy Tyner, Jackie McLean, and Art Blakey, the album balances earthy groove with forward-looking harmonic experimentation. Many of the tracks sit at the crossroads between hard bop accessibility and the freer modal language that transformed jazz during the 1960s.

There’s a strong sense of movement and atmosphere throughout—from the driving pulse of “The Flip” and “Afreaka” to the expansive spiritual intensity of McCoy Tyner’s “Message From The Nile.” Latin influences, African-inspired rhythms, and soulful phrasing weave naturally into the collection, creating a vibrant and immersive listening experience.

Rich in texture, improvisation, and classic Blue Note character, Blue ’N’ Groovy Vol. 2 / Mostly Modal is an essential listen for fans of sophisticated groove-oriented jazz.

Tracklist:

1. Hank Mobley – The Flip – 9:01
2. Stanley Turrentine – And Satisfy – 6:47
3. Donald Byrd – Dixie Lee – 6:41
4. Jackie McLean – Greasy – 7:25
5. Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers – A Little Busy – 6:14
6. Art Pepper – Mambo De La Pinta – 4:17
7. Blue Mitchell – Mamacita – 5:49
8. Don Wilkerson – Senorita Eula – 4:48
9. Lee Morgan – Afreaka – 8:03
10. Duke Pearson – Wahoo – 7:12
11. McCoy Tyner – Message From The Nile – 12:22