by Jim Newsom
Recorded with Herbie Mann's working band at the time, Windows Opened captures the quintet tackling a mixed set of contemporary jazz and pop tunes. Especially noteworthy are takes on Tim Hardin's &If I Were a Carpenter& and the Wayne Shorter composition &Footprints.& Although this is not one of the essential recordings in Mann's catalog, it features excellent playing throughout, with an amazing collection of talent: vibist, future funk/fusion star and acid jazz grandfather Roy Ayers; the unique free-jazz guitarist Sonny Sharrock; and the soon-to-be co-founder of Weather Report, bassist Miroslav Vitous. An enjoyable recording throughout.