Description
Kenny Burrell – KB Blues – 180 Gram Vinyl Record
KB Blues is a soulful, swinging session from legendary jazz guitarist Kenny Burrell, recorded in 1957 but not released until 1979 on the Blue Note label in Japan. Despite its delayed release, the album stands as a vibrant example of Burrell’s early artistry, when he was fast becoming one of the most respected guitarists in hard bop and post-bop jazz circles. KB Blues finds Burrell in excellent company, supported by a stellar ensemble of rising and established jazz talents of the era.
The personnel on the session includes:
Kenny Burrell – guitar
Tommy Flanagan – piano
Paul Chambers – bass
Kenny Clarke – drums
Frank Foster – tenor saxophone (on select tracks)
The album opens with the title track, “KB Blues,” a blues-based original that perfectly captures Burrell’s ability to balance elegance and grit. His playing is fluid, clean, and soulful, with a rhythmic drive that pushes the tune forward without overpowering its relaxed groove. Frank Foster’s tenor sax adds a warm, earthy counterpoint, while Tommy Flanagan’s tasteful comping and soloing round out the lush harmonic texture.
Throughout the album, Burrell demonstrates his signature style: melodically rich lines, chordal sophistication, and a refined blues sensibility that never feels formulaic. He doesn’t aim for flash or speed but instead focuses on phrasing, groove, and emotional clarity. Tracks like “D.B. Blues” (a Lester Young composition) and “Nica’s Dream” (by Horace Silver) show how Burrell could navigate bop material with agility while still grounding everything in swing and blues feeling.
Another standout is his interpretation of “It’s Getting Dark,” a moody, reflective ballad where Burrell’s tone becomes almost voice-like in its nuance and sensitivity. These moments of subtlety and restraint are what make him such a distinctive voice on the instrument—a bridge between bebop’s harmonic complexity and the blues’ direct emotional appeal.
Even though KB Blues was recorded during a prolific period for Burrell—he appeared on countless sessions throughout the 1950s—it still stands out for its warmth, cohesiveness, and clarity of vision. It’s not just a blowing session; it’s a well-balanced record that shows Burrell as both leader and listener, guiding the ensemble with taste and quiet authority.
KB Blues is a hidden gem in Kenny Burrell’s extensive discography. A classic hard bop session that highlights his lyrical guitar style, deep blues roots, and sophisticated approach to jazz standards and originals alike. For fans of straight-ahead jazz guitar, this album is both an essential listen and a beautiful snapshot of Burrell at a creative high point, surrounded by some of the finest players of the era.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Nica’s Dream
Out For Blood
K. B. Blues
D. B. Blues
K. B. Blues (Alternate Take)
