IKE QUEBEC — It Might as Well Be Spring (1962-2010) RM | SACD, Hybrid | Serie The Blue Note Reissues | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Working with the same quartet that cut Heavy Soul -- organist Freddie Roach, bassist Milt Hinton and drummer Al Harewood -- Ike Quebec recorded another winning hard bop album with It Might As Well Be Spring. In many ways, the record is a companion piece to Heavy Soul. Since the two albums were recorded so close together, it's not surprising that there a number of stylistic similarities, but there are subtle differences to savor. The main distinction between the two dates is that It Might As Well Be Spring is a relaxed, romantic date comprised of standards. It provides Quebec with ample opportunity to showcase his rich, lyrical ballad style, and he shines throughout the album. Similarly, Roach has a tasteful, understated technique, whether he's soloing or providing support for Quebec. The pair have a terrific, sympathetic interplay that makes It Might As Well Be Spring a joyous listen. Stephen Thomas Erlewine
Tracklist :

1 It Might as Well Be Spring 6:22

Oscar Hammerstein II / Richard Rodgers
2 A Light Reprieve 5:25
Ike Quebec
3 Easy - Don't Hurt 6:08
Ike Quebec
4 Lover Man 5:57
Jimmy Davis / Roger "Ram" Ramirez / Jimmy Sherman
5 Ol' Man River 6:37
Oscar Hammerstein II / Jerome Kern
6 Willow Weep for Me 5:20
Ann Ronell
Credits :
Double Bass – Milt Hinton
Drums – Al Harewood
Organ – Freddie Roach
Tenor Saxophone – Ike Quebec