You Can Hide Inside the Music

Recording information: 10/15/1991-10/16/1991.
This set by the Harper Brothers is a bit unusual in that the hard bop unit finds itself often in the position of being a backup group to singer Ernie Andrews, who takes five spirited vocals. Although the Harper Brothers gained quite a bit of publicity during their existence, their lack of originality held them back artistically. Altoist Justin Robinson and Walter Blanding on tenor both display run-of-the-mill tones on this date while trumpeter Philip Harper often falls into the trap of trying to imitate Lee Morgan's swagger but without his range. Drummer Winard Harper, the strongest member of the group, always did his best to push the band but on the CD the best instrumental is actually a trio rendition of pianist Ray Gallon's "That's the Question." In addition to Ernie Andrews, trumpeter Harry "Sweets" Edison (clearly past his prime) makes two appearances while organist Jimmy McGriff is a strong asset on the vocal piece "She's Got the Blues for Sale." However the star of the date is definitely Ernie Andrews. His name should have received much higher billing with the Harper Brothers properly demoted to supporting cast members. ~ Scott Yanow