Joe Henderson—Tetragon/Jazz Dispensary Top Shelf Series vinyl reissue [2026]

I discovered the fabulous playing of tenor saxophonist Joe Henderson (1937–2001) through a review gig of another Jazz Dispensary title, Power to the People. That record was so good that it made our Audiophilia Dream List and Records of the Year 2024.

Not only did Henderson have a monumental, driving sound, but his musical sensibilities were perfectly suited to the post-bop/hard-bop world, with a toe or two in the avant-garde, but not offensively so. I adore his work. If you don’t know it, have a stream before you buy. I think you’ll be hooked by his incredible energy and invention.

Tetragon was released in 1968, recorded over two sessions eight months apart. As such, there are two stellar rhythm sections, including the first (September 27, 1967) with pianist Kenny Barron and drummer Louis Hayes, while the second (May 16, 1968) featured pianist Don Friedman and drummer Jack DeJohnette. Legendary bassist and frequent collaborator Ron Carter is on every track. You’ll be hard-pressed to hear any differential qualities between the two sections.

Tracks include “Invitation” by Bronislau Kaper, “R.J.” by Ron Carter and the truly original eight-minute improv “The Bead Game” by Henderson. Side two includes “Tetragon” by Henderson, “Waltz for Sweetie” by Walter Bishop Jr., “First Trio” by Ron Carter, finishing up with the standard “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” by Cole Porter.

The record was produced by Orrin Keepnews and recorded by Elvin Campbell at Plaza Sound Studios, New York City.

This wonderful recording has been remastered in all-analog, gem-like quality by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio and pressed on 180-gram vinyl at Fidelity Record Pressing. It shipped flat and silent in a A Tip-on jacket. Jazz Dispensary also pays special attention to the original Milestone label.

The set begins with Henderson’s irrepressible energy on “Invitation” as he darts about the soundstage with great style. But it starts with the superb Kenny Barron setting a cool mood while Henderson jumps in with a limpid, sexy tone. And builds from there. As always with Henderson, the full compass of the horn is used. There’s a beautiful interplay here in the rhythm section through Barron’s extended solo.

Carter’s “R.J.” gives Henderson pause to noodle around until he hits the cool head swinging hard. Followed by Henderson’s own 8-minute improv, “The Bead Game”. The rhythm section on both these tracks drives the energy hard. Superb.

As for the sound, I don’t know the original, but Kevin Gray gets the stereo spread better than many jazz reissues, piano center, drums right, bass left and Henderson floating and stinging above like a bee. It’s a very satisfying stereo recording. And the timbral accuracy is great. Every facet of Henderson’s embouchure and its myriad tonal expressions is captured.

Things continue splendidly on side 2 with rhythm team B driving things as with team A. Henderson’s “Tetragon” leads things with a raucous tone and scattergun style, but it’s invigorating. Juxtaposed with some tasty Don Friedman piano solos.

Even when recorded eight months apart, this tale of two sessions sounds remarkably similar. Testament to the original recording and Kevin Gray’s remastering skills.

This is as good as hard bop/post bop gets. A brilliant soloist surrounded by equally brilliant sidemen. Invention, beauty (“Waltz for Sweetie”) and high drama with blazing virtuosity by all players. Unmissable and very highly recommended.

My thanks to Jacob Kossak of Craft Recordings for providing Audiophilia with a review copy. I’m so glad I became acquainted.

MSRP USD 33

Release Date: March 13, 2026

Craft Recordings