Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers - Oh-By The Way (2026 Reissue) Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers

Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers' Oh-By The Way captures a new era for the band, recorded in 1982 and showcasing a fresh generation of rising stars. This line-up features Terence Blanchard, Donald Harrison, and Johnny O'Neal, who stepped in after the celebrated Marsalis-Williams period and continued Blakey's unmatched legacy of discovering and shaping young jazz talent.

The album opens with Blanchard's vibrant title track Oh-By The Way, a composition that quickly became a modern Messenger favourite thanks to its strong melodic drive and infectious energy. Following the success of Album Of The Year, this recording presents a confident new direction for the band.

The programme includes a spirited performance of Wayne Shorter's classic One by One, alongside a distinctive and expressive reading of My Funny Valentine, adding depth and contrast to the set. Today, Oh-By The Way stands as a testament to the enduring vitality and evolution of The Jazz Messengers tradition, a compelling document of Blakey's ever-renewing creative force.

Oh-By The Way is available as a limited edition on blue coloured vinyl, includes liner notes by Dutch Timeless label owners Wim Wigt and Ria Wigt. Affixed to the plastic sleeve is the 50th anniversary sticker.