Red Clay stitches together two periods of music, late 60s post-bop jazz and the innovations of ‘70s jazz fusion. Arguably Hubbard’s finest work as a bandleader puts us in the company of a bodacious assembly of musicians. It’s worth noting that a similar outfit formed again later as V.S.O.P (led by Herbie) in 1977, recording two albums together.

Starting off Hubbard’s 17th studio album is the title track, Red Clay, reminiscent of the southern red clay in Indianapolis, evoked by Hubbard’s childhood memories. The Red Clay band provides intense groove experimentations and interesting motifs giving each song its own character. An acute awareness of each other’s playing styles means that Freddie, Joe, Herbie, Ron and Lenny play with a chemistry that melts each layer into the next.

A full album listen through comes highly recommended on this one to put yourself inside the Van Gelder studios during the third week of January in 1970.