OhBy The Way captures a new era for Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers, recorded in 1982 and showcasing a fresh generation of rising stars. This lineup features Terence Blanchard, Donald Harrison and Johnny ONeal, who stepped in after the celebrated Marsalis-Williams period and continued Blakeys unmatched legacy of discovering and shaping young jazz talent.
The album opens with Blanchards vibrant title track OhBy The Way, a composition that quickly became a modern Messenger favourite thanks to its strong melodic drive and infectious energy. Following the success of Album Of The Year, this recording presents a confident new direction for the band.
The program includes a spirited performance of Wayne Shorters classic One by One, alongside a distinctive and expressive reading of My Funny Valentine, adding depth and contrast to the set.
Today, OhBy The Way stands as a testament to the enduring vitality and evolution of The Jazz Messengers tradition, a compelling document of Blakeys everrenewing creative force.
Oh-by The Way is available as a limited edition on blue coloured vinyl, includes liner-notes by Dutch Timeless label owners Wim and Ria Wigt. Affixed on plastic sleeve is the 50th anniversary sticker.