1983 Greg Adams “Koolin Out” on Hip City Records

One of the numerous things I love about this record is what a complete scatback-deke in the style of Barry Sanders breaking the ankles of Mike Singletary while bursting through the middle of the during the same year of release, how it presents, almost 100%, from art to attitude to title to label name, like a lost lo-fi garage soul grail. Yeah, it’s not that at all. In fact, it’s highly sophisticated modal jazz led by the very slick and assured drumming of Adams. Hip City put out exactly one record, and this is it, but at least they nailed their discography tight. I assume most reading this are hip to the MIGHTY vibes player Rickey Kelley (“Limited Stops Only”!) and he’s on fire throughout. But that’s not all! Dadisi Komolafe (“Hasaan’s Walk”) kills it on alto and flute, Bobby West stomps on electric piano, and Al Threats is awesome on electric bass.

As someone who plays a few instruments competently, but with no real talent, and drums not at all, I’m always surprised by how partial I am towards drummer-led ensembles, of which there are many in Japan but not so popular here. Well, this is one to take to the bank. Just great no-nonsense modernist post-bop with righteous improvisations throughout, and sweet cornet by John “The Mad Capp” Williams. Oh yeah!