Donaldson's Electric Experiment in Blue Note's Studio
Hot Dog captures Donaldson embracing the varitone amplification system, a bold sonic choice that sets this session apart from his earlier work.
By 1969, Lou Donaldson had spent over a decade establishing himself as a reliable, swinging saxophonist with a gift for soulful melodies and organ-combo grooves. Hot Dog finds him experimenting with the varitone amplification system on his saxophone—a technology that gave his tone an electronic shimmer and presence that was unusual for him. It's not a gimmick here; the amplified sound actually suits the material, adding texture to what amounts to a lean, functional soul-jazz session.
The band he assembled includes Ed Williams on trombone, Charles Earland on organ, Melvin Sparks on guitar, and Leo Morris on drums. This is a working unit, the kind of ensemble that could play clubs and dance halls and keep audiences happy. There's nothing precious about the arrangements or the playing—everyone knows exactly what to do, and they do it with a professional efficiency that makes the record feel effortless. Sparks' guitar work is particularly grounded, and Earland keeps things moving without overplaying.
As a document of Donaldson's career, this sits somewhere in the middle. It's not his peak work, and it's not essential listening for people new to him. But it's a solid, competent recording that shows an artist willing to try something new with his sound while staying true to the straightforward soul-jazz language he'd mastered. The varitone experiment didn't stick with him long-term, so this record captures a brief moment of curiosity from a saxophonist usually content with more conventional approaches.
Who's playing
Melvin Sparksguitar
Lou Donaldsonalto saxophone
Ed Williamstrumpet
Charles Earlandorgan
Idris Muhammaddrums
Where next?
More by Lou Donaldson
All 15 albums →
The musicians on this record
Their own records, close in time
