P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - Jawbones (2013)

Between 1968 and 1970, the P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble, led by teenage musician Phil Hewitt, recorded three self-released LPs in limited quantities. Hewitt, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, was only 16 when he recorded the first album, Jawbones, which showcased a vibrant blend of post-bop modal jazz with Latin and exotica influences. The band's youthful energy and Hewitt's imaginative vibraphone work hinted at future developments.

The second album, Since Washington (1969), marked a deeper, bluesier turn in their music, highlighted by vocalist Terry Mason’s poetic lyrics and Charley Forsberg’s expressive tenor sax. Tracks like Sad Sunday and 3 AM stand out with their soul-stirring and introspective qualities.

The final album, Winter Winds (1970), refined their style further, incorporating elements of bugalu and bossa nova with dreamy vocals from Sonia Valldeparas and Nina Scheller, and energetic drumming by Rick Hearns. This album presents a unique fusion of cosmic, ethno-jazz, and pop influences.

A recent reissue of the albums includes a beautifully crafted booklet with a detailed interview with Hewitt, shedding light on his adventurous life and further musical works. The reissue preserves the original album aesthetics and provides a glimpse into Hewitt’s enduring creativity.

Tracklist:
1-1 P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - Free
1-2 P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - Ihadmyheadoverthechickensouppot
1-3 P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - Mary
1-4 P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - Don't Judge Your Brother
1-5 P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - Cat House Blues
1-6 P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - The Ones Left Behind
1-7 P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - Betrayed
1-8 P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - Bullheads In My Shoes Blues
1-9 P.E. Hewitt Jazz Ensemble - Karen