Herbie Hancock ‎– The Prisoner NM/NM

Herbie Hancock’s “The Prisoner,” released in 1970, stands as a powerful farewell to the Blue Note label and a turning point in his artistic journey. It’s a deeply personal album, brimming with raw emotion and a powerful social message. Composed in the wake of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, the music is a tribute to his legacy and a reflection on the struggles faced by Black America.

Hancock assembles a formidable nonet of jazz masters, including Joe Henderson and Johnny Coles, to create a rich and dynamic soundscape. The music itself is a departure from his previous work, pushing the boundaries of hard bop with its complex arrangements and improvisational fire. Tracks like the title song explore themes of confinement and liberation, while “Firewater” evokes the duality of oppression and the yearning for freedom championed by Dr. King.

“The Prisoner” is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a statement. Hancock himself described it as the music closest to his true self, a powerful expression of his artistic vision and social conscience. It’s a landmark album in his career, a final flourish on his Blue Note chapter before venturing into new musical territories.