Condition: Brand New Ships from: Melbourne

• Description
• Release details
• Tracklist

• Donald Byrds Slow Drag, recorded in 1967 and released on Blue Note in 1968, captures the trumpeter in a period of transition, offering a relaxed yet tightly executed session of soulful hard bop. Supported by Sonny Red on alto saxophone, Cedar Walton on piano, Walter Booker on bass, and Billy Higgins on drums (who also lends quirky, half-sung vocals to the title track), the album leans into groove and atmosphere over speed or complexity. The result is a record that feels intimate and expressive, filled with bluesy warmth and subtle fire.

  The title track opens the album with a slow, rolling vamp that immediately sets a laid-back mood, and Higgins unexpected vocal interlude adds a unique texture. “Books Bossa” shifts into a light Latin rhythm, while The Loner highlights Waltons sensitive touch on the keys. Byrds trumpet lines remain lyrical throughout, revealing an artist who is increasingly embracing soul-inflected phrasing. Though not as well-known as his later fusion-era work, Slow Drag is a charming and often overlooked gem in Byrds catalog.

  • 180-gram LP
  • Mastered by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio from the original master tape
  • Plated and pressed at RTI

  Reviews

  Donald Byrd eases into a smoky, after-hours vibe on Slow Drag, where groove and tone take center stage. Its a session full of restraint and soulful interplay. All About Jazz

  A forgotten Blue Note classic… Byrds playing here is all heart and hush, with Cedar Walton anchoring the mood beautifully. JazzTimes

  Not one of Byrds boldest statements, but certainly one of his most atmospheric. A cool, late-night listen. The Guardian

  A rewarding listen, especially for those drawn to the understated side of late-60s jazz. Theres a loose camaraderie that carries the session. PopMatters

  Byrds tone is elegant and clean, and the band is in no hurrymaking for a record that rewards close, quiet listening. Pitchfork

  Review

  AllMusic rating: AllMusic users: (88 votes) Read the AllMusic.com review

• Artist: Donald Byrd Label: Blue Note Format: LP Units: 1 Country: Worldwide Genre: Jazz Style: Hard Bop, Soul-Jazz

• A1 Slow Drag
  A2 Secret Love
  A3 Booker’S Bossa
  B1 Jelly Roll
  B2 The Loner
  B3 My Ideal