Ashby, Dorothy With Frank Wess: Hip Harp (Coloured Vinyl LP)

Born in Detroit in 1932, Dorothy Ashby can be easily recognized as the woman who gave the harp a jazz voice. In her hands, the harp, an originally classical instrument which seemed to just scare people, became a highly versatile swinging voice able to drive a whole jazz rhythm section.

Recorded in 1958 by master Rudy Van Gelder and originally released on the Prestige label, Hip Harp is a perfect example of Ashby’s artistry. At the head of a fine quartet featuring the great Frank Wess on flute, Herman Wright on Bass and master Art Taylor on drums, Ashby creates a unique combination of deeply jazz elements expressed through a totally new sound. 2020 clear vinyl reissue.

1. Pawkey
2. Moonlight In Vermont
3. Back Talk
4. Dancing In The Dark
5. Charmaine
6. Jollity
7. There's A Small Hotel