Roy Hargrove, named “the most impactful trumpeter of his generation” by The New York Times, left behind a remarkable legacy when he passed in 2018. Now, Blue Engine Records, celebrates Hargrove’s legacy with the release of an unearthed gem from the JALC archives: Roy Hargrove’s The Love Suite: In Mahogany – Live from Jazz at Lincoln Center, a live performance of a JALC-commissioned suite that Hargrove never played in full again.
Commissioned by Jazz at Lincoln Center to compose and perform The Love Suite: In Mahogany, a then-23-year-old Hargrove demonstrates a remarkably mature approach to his craft. For the first time, this historic concert—captured at Alice Tully Hall in 1993 during one of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s earliest seasons—is available via digital streaming platforms. This album showcases the trumpet virtuosity and soulful songwriting for which Hargrove continues to be celebrated.
This is the only recording of this original suite of music that was commissioned by Jazz at Lincoln Center and features an incredible array of musicians including Jesse Davis (alto saxophone), Ron Blake (tenor saxophone), Andre Hayward (trombone), Marc Cary (piano), Rodney Whitaker (bass), and Gregory Hutchinson (drums).
Track Listing
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The Love Suite: In Mahogany – Introduction
- The Love Suite: In Mahogany – Young Daydreams (Beauteous Visions)
- The Love Suite: In Mahogany – Obviously Destined
- The Love Suite: In Mahogany – Stability
- The Love Suite: In Mahogany – The Trial
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The Love Suite: In Mahogany – Into the Outcome
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The Love Suite: In Mahogany – Outro and Band Introductions
With downloadable bonus tracks "Everything I Have Is Yours" and "My Shining Hour" (digital only).
Personnel
Roy Hargrove – trumpet
Ron Blake – tenor and soprano saxophone
Marc Cary – piano
Greg Hutchinson – drums
with special guests
Jesse Davis – alto saxophone
Andre Hayward – trombone
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In Best Historical Albums of 2024 – Downbeat Magazine
"The suite is so well executed, that it is at times breathtaking, especially the last movement, which is a 'must-hear.' It's yet another reminder of why Hargrove remains so beloved and dearly missed." – Glide Magazine
"The Love Suite shows Hargrove, Cary, Whitaker and Hutchinson at the start of their development and is a fine introduction to Hargrove's progression as a trailblazing artist." – Downbeat Magazine (5-star review)
"He really was an astonishing player, and this is a brilliant piece of music." – Stereogum
“This live recording from 1993 is the only time Hargrove played The Love Suite: In Mahogany in its entirety. That alone makes this an essential album. Until you listen to it. Then you realize how truly incredible the work is.” – Cultural Attaché
"This was a Jazz at Lincoln Center commission, and the music is a flat out marvel — maybe the most vivid example we have of Roy's ability to marshal hard-bop fire in a new form, stepped in swinging tradition but sparkling and crackling right now." – The Gig
