A Tear To A Smile - Roy Ayers Ubiquity (1LP Vinyl)

When Roy Ayers Ubiquity recorded A Tear To A Smile, they created a timeless piece of art that continues to inspire musicians today from 1975 – this is one of those records that stopped me in my tracks.

This record has been in my personal collection for years, and every time I play it, I discover something new in the interplay between the musicians.

By the '70s, Roy Ayers Ubiquity was navigating the changing landscape of music – jazz fusion was emerging, rock was dominating the charts, and many traditional jazz artists were finding new ways to stay relevant. This album showcases the depth and sophistication that comes with adapting to changing times while staying true to your artistic vision.

Musical Analysis:
What strikes me most about this recording is the intricate interplay between the musicians. Roy Ayers Ubiquity leads with that distinctive voice that made them a legend, but it's the conversation between all the players that creates the real magic. The harmonic progressions showcase the evolution of jazz during this era, moving beyond traditional structures into more adventurous territory. You can hear the influence of bebop, hard bop, and the emerging modal approaches that would define the future of jazz. The rhythm section provides that perfect foundation – tight but never restrictive, allowing for those spontaneous moments that make jazz so compelling.

From a Collector's Perspective:
After decades of hunting down rare pressings and audiophile releases, I can tell you that records like this don't come around often. This isn't just a record – it's a piece of musical history that belongs in any serious collection. The market for recordings like this has only grown stronger over the years, as more collectors recognize the artistic and historical significance of these sessions.

What makes this pressing special:
Track Listing:
A1. 2000 Black
A2. Magic Lady
A3. Show Us A Feeling
A4. Ebony Blaze
A5. Time And Space
B1. No Question
B2. The Way Of The World
B3. The Old One Two (Move To Groove)
B4. Miles (Love's Silent Dawn)
B5. A Tear To A Smile

Sound Quality & Pressing Details:
The sonic characteristics of this pressing are exceptional. The dynamic range captures every nuance of the original performance – from the subtle brush work on the drums to the full bloom of the horns in the climactic passages. The stereo imaging (or mono presentation, depending on the era) places you right in the studio with the musicians. You can hear the room tone, the natural reverb, and those little details that make you feel like you're experiencing a live performance. The bass response is tight and defined, the midrange warm and present, and the high frequencies crisp without any harshness. Pressing quality is crucial for a record like this, and this release maintains the highest standards. The vinyl is quiet between tracks, tracking is excellent throughout, and the overall presentation does justice to the source material.

Cultural Impact & Legacy:
Understanding the cultural significance of this recording requires looking beyond just the music itself. Roy Ayers Ubiquity was working during a period when jazz was not just entertainment, but a form of cultural expression that challenged social norms and pushed artistic boundaries. This recording captures a moment in time when musicians were redefining what American music could be. The influence of this recording can be heard in countless albums that followed. Young musicians studied these performances, learning not just the notes but the approach, the attitude, the fearless creativity that defined this generation of artists. From an investment standpoint, recordings like this have consistently held their value and often appreciated significantly over time. But more importantly, this is the kind of record that changes how you hear music. It's an education in artistic excellence that never gets old.

If you're building a serious collection, this belongs on your shelf. I guarantee you'll return to this record again and again.

– Miles Waxey

Artist: Roy Ayers Ubiquity

Format: 1LP

Genre: Jazz

Label: Polydor

Catalog Number: PD 6046

Release Year: 1998

Country: United States

Condition: Sealed (New)