About
Midnight Blue is widely regarded as one of guitarist Kenny Burrell’s finest recordings and one of the classic albums in the Blue Note Records catalog. It was recorded on January 8, 1963, at Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, and released later that year. (Wikipedia)
The album features a pianoless quintet:
- Kenny Burrell – guitar
- Stanley Turrentine – tenor saxophone
- Major Holley – bass
- Bill English – drums
- Ray Barretto – congas (Wikipedia)
What makes Midnight Blue special is its understated, blues-centered approach. Instead of virtuosic fireworks, Burrell emphasizes warm tone, lyrical phrasing, and relaxed grooves. The absence of piano gives the guitar and Turrentine’s soulful tenor saxophone extra room, while Barretto’s conga adds subtle Latin flavor without dominating the music. Critics and listeners often cite it as one of the most accessible introductions to jazz guitar. (AllMusic)
Notable tracks
- “Chitlins con Carne” – Burrell’s signature composition, a slow, Latin-tinged blues that has become a jazz standard and has been covered by many artists.
- “Soul Lament” – A beautiful solo guitar performance showcasing Burrell’s expressive touch.
- “Midnight Blue” – The title track, with a moody, late-night atmosphere.
- “Saturday Night Blues” – A relaxed blues featuring memorable exchanges between Burrell and Turrentine.
- “Gee Baby, Ain’t I Good to You” – The album’s lone standard, played with elegance and restraint. (Apple Music – Web Player)
The album has remained influential for decades. It’s frequently recommended as an essential Blue Note recording and a gateway into jazz because it blends blues, swing, and subtle sophistication in a way that feels inviting rather than intimidating. NPR has included it in its “Basic Jazz Library,” and many critics consider it one of the definitive jazz guitar albums. (Wikipedia)
If you enjoy Midnight Blue, other albums with a similar feel include:
- Bluesy Burrell by Kenny Burrell
- Blue Bash! by Kenny Burrell and Jimmy Smith
- Idle Moments by Grant Green
- The Sidewinder by Lee Morgan
These albums share the same relaxed, blues-infused Blue Note aesthetic that makes Midnight Blue such an enduring favorite.
