SHM-CDs (Super High Material CDs) reproduce sound more faithfully than conventional CDs. SHM-CDs comply with CD standards and can be played on existing players. SHM-CDs utilize a polycarbonate material originally developed for LCD screens, and its enhanced transparency results in greater clarity, depth, and definition of sound, bringing the listener ever closer to the music of the original master. It offers crystal-clear sound, significantly higher resolution, and excellent balance and stability.
The multifaceted Quincy Jones returned to the recording studio after a long stint as a leader in Hollywood with this triumphantly contemporary big band album. He firmly reestablished himself with his big band jazz foundation, while keeping a close eye on the pop scene and the world of electric instruments (even Ray Brown is caught playing excellent electric bass here). For jazz lovers, the long, dramatic title track from the then-popular musical "Hair" is a highlight; Hubbard positively shimmers on muted trumpet, and the brash Kirk blasts through the grooving rhythm section under heavy reverb. There's some in-the-pocket drumming from Bernard Perdie on two of the six tracks, Jones's classic, rousing arrangement of Benny Golson's "Killer Joe," and a rendition of Edwin Hawkins' freak hit "Oh Happy Day" that bursts with humor and pure joy. This is a perfect blend of the hippest trends emerging on the scene at the time.
