Hank Crawford's "After Hours" is a captivating journey through the soulful and dynamic landscape of jazz, blending elements of soul jazz, jazz blues, jazz funk, and hard bop. Released on February 8, 2005, under Rhino Atlantic, this album is a reissue of Crawford's 1966 classic, offering a fresh take on timeless sounds. With a runtime of just over 33 minutes, the album packs a powerful punch, featuring eight tracks that showcase Crawford's mastery of the saxophone and his ability to infuse each note with raw emotion and technical brilliance.
The album opens with the title track, "After Hours," setting the tone for a night of sultry, late-night jazz. Tracks like "Junction" and "Soul Shoutin'" highlight Crawford's knack for creating infectious grooves and memorable melodies, while "Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me)" and "Makin' Whoopee" showcase his versatility and depth. Each song is a testament to Crawford's enduring influence on the jazz genre, making "After Hours" a must-listen for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.