Don Patterson - Boppin' & Burnin'(1968)

This album presents organist Don Patterson in a fiery late-1960s jazz setting that blends hard bop intensity with soul-jazz groove elements. The recording captures a tightly knit ensemble featuring trumpeter Howard McGhee, alto saxophonist Charles McPherson, guitarist Pat Martino, and drummer Billy James, each contributing to a powerful and cohesive group sound. Patterson’s Hammond organ work drives the session with deep rhythmic bass lines, rich harmonic textures, and energetic improvisational passages that anchor the ensemble throughout. The repertoire includes both bebop standards such as “Donna Lee” and “Epistrophy,” alongside extended improvisations like “Pisces Soul,” which highlight the group’s ability to stretch form while maintaining groove and structure. Martino’s guitar provides sharp, fluid counterlines to the organ’s sustained harmonies, while McPherson and McGhee deliver crisp, articulate solo statements rooted in the bebop tradition. The rhythm section maintains a steady, driving pulse that enhances the album’s “boppin’ and burnin’” character, making this recording a strong example of late-1960s organ-led jazz sessions.

Tracklist:
1. Pisces Soul
2. Donna Lee
3. Island Fantasy
4. Epistrophy
5. Now's the time

Personnel :
Don Patterson - organ
Howard McGhee - trumpet
Charles McPherson - alto saxophone
Pat Martino - guitar
Billy James - drums