About

Recorded for Blue Note in '69, this is one of several late-'60s albums by the legendary alto saxophonist that tend to get little respect. That's too bad, really. Apart from sporting a very capable band in trumpeter Blue Mitchell, guitarist Jimmy Ponder, organist Charles Earland and drummer Leo Morris, the five selections on Say It Loud! are undeniably fun. True, there aren't great answers on God or the circle of life here, but the album never attempts such feats. What is offered and delivered successfully are seamless, easy grooves that highlight Donaldson's exceptional taste on alto. The album's title track comes, of course, from James Brown's classic anthem. Here, it is done with less swagger and more cool. The band's in no hurry and the jam like setting finds everyone in fine form. – All About Jazz