The Cat and the Hat

Ben Sidran creates singular music by gathering jazz, blues and R&B into a stylish whole. Released in 1979, this was his only album for Horizon/A&M. Beginning with the funky ‘Hi-Fly,’ its transparent sound and singing combine varied elements of black music and reveal the essence of ‘Doctor Jazz.’ It ranks among the very finest works of his career.

Michael Franks was brought in as producer, with a jazz-oriented group of players including Lee Ritenour on guitar, Steve Gadd on drums and Abraham Laboriel on bass. Supported by them, Ben plays not just originals but standards and buried jazz gems, instrumentally or with added words. These include Thelonious Monk's ‘Ask Me Now,’ John Coltrane's ‘Like Sonny’ and Gigi Gryce's ‘Minority.’ Sophisticated eclecticism runs through the album as its concept, playful touches included. An album whose urbane resonance is deeply attractive.