On February 19, 1972, Lee Morgan was shot and killed by his common-law wife, Helen More following a performance at the New York club Slug's. Sadly much of his work was released after his death and this is the case with this rare gem aply titled "Speedball". This album although released in 1973 has no liner notes nor can I find out much about this old vinyl album. I dont think is lifted from the Lighthouse 1970 double album as the sound indicates a less professional source and the inclusion of "Willow Weep For Me" which didnt appear on that live album. This ones a bit of a mysty to me so if anyone knows please contact me..
I also should mention that although the recording has some limitations ...a wee bit of distortion and some fade outs the overall recording is brilliant and alive! If I am correct on the source for this album then joining Lee Morgan on stage is Bennie Maupin (on tenor, bass clarinet, and flute) pianist Harold Mabern, bassist Jymie Merritt, and drummer Mickey Roker.
The album kicks off with a side long live track "Willow Weep For Me" which clocks in just over 20 minutes and gives everyone a chance to spread out and jam a bit. Thos vinyl plays like it was recorded in a smokey room full of guests having dinner and sipping cocktails. You can hear the clanging of glasses and forks on the plate and clearly this was an intimate evening where ever it was.
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