Horace Silver Quintet - Six Pieces of Silver (1956) [Remastered 2011]

This is the album that launched the Horace Silver Quintet. As a pianist, songwriter and bandleader, Horace Silver recorded quite a few superb sessions during his many years on Blue Note. His ability to write and improvise memorable melodies while infusing bebop with the blues epitomized soul jazz. Six Pieces Of Silver is his earliest gem. With Donald Byrd and Hank Mobley in his quintet, Silver debuts six new compositions. While “Senor Blues” became a hit and “Cool Eyes” was well known, each of the songs (which includes “Virgo” and “Shirl”) rewards repeated listenings. The soloists are inspired by the fresh repertoire, Silver's playing is full of wit and soul, and on this record, the famous sound of the Horace Silver Quintet is heard for the first time.