Clark knew that if he recorded any of his former boss’s music, it would be these pieces that he would love to take on. Though he was known for his association with some of Hancock’s funkiest music, it was the sophisticated contemporary sounds of Hancock’s 1960s Blue Note recordings that Clark appreciated most. Hancock also introduced Clark to the study of Buddhism. Clark remains indebted to Hancock for opening the door to a wider audience. Eventually, the pull of acoustic jazz playing was too much for Clark to deny and he settled in New York City and joined its incredible jazz scene. Jackson recommended Clark for the group and the Headhunters were born.Ĭlark’s tenure with Hancock and the Headhunters broke the drummer into the jazz consciousness and allowed him to do some revolutionary things on his instrument. Hancock initially had Harvey Mason for the drum chair, but his work constraints wouldn’t allow him to join. Hancock began to regroup a smaller, funkier ensemble and hired Jackson. He regularly played post-bop gigs with Woody Shaw and Bobby Hutcherson, but it was in organ trios and funky gigs with his friend, bassist Paul Jackson, that really cemented Clark’s standing on the scene.Īt the time, Hancock’s ground-breaking, electric Mwandishi ensemble broke up due to financial constraints.
HERBIE HANCOCK GIGI HANCOCK PROFESSIONAL
Mike Clark was a burgeoning professional drummer in the Bay Area during the late 1960s. To show his appreciation, Clark presents a selection of his favorite Hancock pieces performed with a trio on his new recording, Mike Clark Plays Herbie Hancock. Like many of these musicians, it was the opportunity to play with the great pianist/composer that introduced the great drummer Mike Clark to the jazz world at large. The music of Herbie Hancock has affected the lives of generations of jazz performers.
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