H (Bob James album)
H is a studio album by jazz keyboardist Bob James, released in 1976. It was released on CTI Records. The album is notable for its diverse instrumentation and stylistic explorations, incorporating elements of jazz, funk, and classical music.
The album features a core band consisting of Bob James on keyboards, Gary King on bass, and Steve Gadd on drums. Other notable musicians who contributed to the album include Hubert Laws on flute, Ralph MacDonald on percussion, and Joe Farrell on saxophone.
Key tracks on the album include "Storm King," a high-energy fusion piece featuring intricate keyboard work, and "Heads," a smoother, more melodic composition. "Heads" became a popular radio track and helped to solidify James's reputation as a leading figure in contemporary jazz.
"H" is often regarded as one of Bob James's most influential and well-regarded albums. It exemplifies his ability to blend different musical genres into a cohesive and accessible sound. The album's arrangements are sophisticated, and the performances are consistently strong, making it a cornerstone of the jazz fusion genre.