Blue Note Classic Vinyl Reissue Series!
180g Vinyl LP!
Mastered by Kevin Gray from Original Analog Tapes!
Pressed at Optimal!

Donald Byrd’s 1974 fusion masterpieceStepping into Tomorrowwas a high-water mark of the legendary trumpeter’s vibrant latter Blue Note years. Byrd had begun recording for Blue Note in 1958 and, over the course of his tenure, evolved from a top-notch hard-bop trumpeter into a pioneer of R&B/funk fusion, leading the label’s own creative direction along a similar path. Byrd began to introduce elements of fusion to his music with his 1969 albumFancy Freeand shadowed Miles Davis early-1970s moves with experimental sessions likeElectric ByrdandEthiopian Knights. When Byrd hooked up with visionary producer Larry Mizell for his landmark 1972 albumBlack Byrda new sound coalesced: funky and sultry, sophisticated yet accessible, with intricate arrangements that allowed Byrd’s trumpet to soar over top. A string of commercial successes followed, the third of which wasStepping into Tomorrowfeaturing the standout title track and “Think Twice,” which would become touchstones for future hip-hop generations including artists like J Dilla, Madlib, and A Tribe Called Quest. The album featured contributions from saxophonistGary Bartz,multi-instrumentalist/vocalistFonce Mizell,bassistChuck Rainey,drummerHarvey Mason& others.

This Blue Note Classic Vinyl Edition is stereo, all-analog, mastered by Kevin Gray from the original master tapes, and pressed on 180g vinyl at Optimal.

Features

• Blue Note Classic Vinyl Reissue Series
• 180g Vinyl LP
• All-Analog Pressing
• Mastered by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio from Original Analog Tapes
• Manufactured at Optimal in Germany

Musicians

Selections

Side 1:

1. Stepping into Tomorrow
2. Design a Nation
3. We’re Together
4. Think Twice

Side 2:

1. Makin’ It
2. Rock and Roll Again
3. You Are the World
4. I Love the Girl