Walter Davis, Jr.'s debut record as a leader for Blue Note is a terrific hard bop session, a driving collection of six original tunes that emphasize the strengths not only of the pianist himself, but also his supporting band: trumpeter
Donald Byrd, alto saxophonist
Jackie McLean, bassist
Sam Jones, and drummer
Art Taylor. Apart from the lovely ballad "Sweetness,"
Davis Cup moves along at a brisk pace, with the rhythm section urging the soloists to new heights.
Byrd has rarely sounded better, and on this date
McLean provides ample evidence that he was moving beyond the conventions of hard bop and developing his own unique style.
Davis, of course, does more than acquit himself -- he contributes an engaging, energetic performance that keeps the music grounded. His compositions are just as captivating, whether it's the swinging "Rhumba Nhumba" or the darkly invigorating "Minor Mind." It all adds up to a wonderful straight-ahead hard bop date, one that's so good it's a wonder that
Davis didn't receive another chance to lead a session until 1979. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine