Wayne Shorter – Speak No Evil

Wayne Shorter's Speak No Evil is a seminal jazz album released in 1966 by Blue Note Records. Recorded on Christmas Eve in 1964, it features a lineup of jazz legends including Freddie Hubbard, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, and Elvin Jones. The album consists of six original compositions by Shorter, blending elements of hard bop and modal jazz. Tracks like "Witch Hunt" and "Infant Eyes" showcase the group's cohesive interplay and individual brilliance. Speak No Evil is regarded as one of Shorter's finest works, highlighting his compositional excellence and improvisational prowess. It reflects his evolution from hard bop to post-bop, influenced by his time with Art Blakey and Miles Davis. The album's timeless appeal lies in its complex melodies and harmonies, making it a cornerstone of jazz history. Despite initial low fanfare, it has grown in critical acclaim over time, becoming a foundational album for many jazz enthusiasts.