ProJazz.net

Personnel:
Bobby Hutcherson – vibes, marimba
Oscar Brashear, Blue Mitchell – trumpet
Plas Johnson – flute
Ernie Watts, Fred Jackson, Jr. – tenor saxophone, flute
Eddie Cano – piano
Larry Nash – electric piano
Dennis Budimir – guitar
Chuck Domanico, Dave Troncoso – bass
Harvey Mason – drums
Bobby Matos, Johnny Paloma, Victor Pantoja, Ralph MacDonald, Willie Bobo, Rudy Calzado – percussion
Dale Oehler – arranger

Montara by Bobby Hutcherson – A Laid-Back Jazz Classic Rewritten in a Chill Tone

Introduction to Montara

If jazz albums had personalities, Montara would be that effortlessly cool friend who never tries too hard but somehow always steals the spotlight. Released back in 1975, this album shows Bobby Hutcherson in a more relaxed, groove-focused mood—and honestly, it works like magic.

Why Montara Still Feels Fresh

Even decades later, Montara doesn’t sound dusty or stuck in the past. It feels warm, smooth, and welcoming, like sunshine pouring through an open window. That’s a big reason why people still talk about it—and still sample it—today.

A Different Side of Bobby Hutcherson

Before Montara, Hutcherson was known for more experimental, avant-garde jazz. This album? It’s him kicking back, loosening his tie, and just enjoying the groove. Same talent, totally different vibe.

The Musical Vibe of Montara

A Smooth Mix of Jazz Styles

Montara blends styles the way a great DJ blends tracks—seamlessly.

Latin Jazz Influences

You’ll hear Latin rhythms all over this album. The percussion pops, the beats dance, and everything feels alive and moving. It’s the kind of sound that makes your head nod without you even realizing it.

Soul-Jazz and Funk Flavors

There’s also plenty of soul and funk mixed in. The basslines are deep, the electric piano is silky, and the overall feel is mellow but never boring.

Easygoing, Sun-Soaked Grooves

This isn’t “sit straight and analyze every note” jazz. This is “put it on, relax, and let it ride” music. Perfect for late afternoons, long drives, or just zoning out.

Behind the Scenes of the Album

Recording in 1975 Los Angeles

The album was recorded at the Record Plant in L.A., and you can almost hear the California warmth in the sound. Everything feels open, airy, and unforced.

The Creative Team That Shaped the Sound

Dale Oehler’s Role

Dale Oehler handled the arrangements and co-produced the album. He helped shape the smooth, laid-back direction that makes Montara stand out.

George Butler’s Vision

Blue Note executive producer George Butler nudged Hutcherson toward this more accessible sound—and that nudge turned out to be a great call.

Why Critics and Fans Love Montara

A Feel-Good Favorite

Critics often describe Montara as a “feel-good” record, and that’s spot on. It’s upbeat without being loud, relaxed without being sleepy.

A Standout Album of the 1970s

Many fans see it as one of the high points of Hutcherson’s 1970s Blue Note run. It’s approachable, melodic, and just plain enjoyable.

Montara’s Impact on Modern Music

Hip-Hop Producers and Sampling Culture

The title track, “Montara,” has been sampled by heavyweights like Madlib and Q-Tip. That alone tells you how timeless the groove really is.

The Album’s Lasting Legacy

When an album keeps inspiring new music decades later, you know it did something right. Montara keeps finding new ears—and winning them over.

Track-by-Track Overview

Camel Rise

Written by George Cables, this track eases you into the album with smooth melodies and a relaxed pace.

Montara

The star of the show. Catchy, warm, and endlessly loopable. No wonder producers love it.

(Se Acabó) La Malanga

This one leans hard into Latin rhythms, with percussion driving the whole thing forward.

Love Song

Soft, melodic, and exactly what the title promises.

Little Angel

Gentle and soulful, with a sweet, floating feel.

Yuyo

Another Hutcherson original that keeps the groove rolling without overcomplicating things.

Oye Como Va

Yes, that song—but with a jazz twist. Familiar, yet fresh.

The All-Star Lineup

Bobby Hutcherson and His Instruments

Hutcherson handles vibraphone and marimba, and his playing is as smooth as ever—never flashy, always tasteful.

Horns, Keys, and Rhythm Section

With musicians like Blue Mitchell, Ernie Watts, Larry Nash, and Chuck Domanico, the album is stacked with talent.

Percussion That Brings the Heat

Willie Bobo, Bobby Matos, Ralph McDonald, and others bring layers of rhythm that give the album its heartbeat.

Why Montara Is So Easy to Love

Perfect for New Jazz Listeners

If someone says, “I don’t really get jazz,” Montara is a great place to start. It’s friendly, not intimidating.

Great Background or Deep Listening Album

You can play it while studying—or sit down and really focus. Either way, it works.

Montara Compared to Hutcherson’s Earlier Work

From Avant-Garde to Accessible

This album shows Hutcherson proving he didn’t need complexity to be interesting.

A Creative Evolution

Rather than selling out, Montara feels like an artist confidently exploring a new lane.

When and How to Listen to Montara

Best Moods and Moments

Late afternoons, relaxed evenings, road trips, or chill weekends—this album fits them all.

Vinyl, Streaming, or Headphones?

Vinyl if you want warmth, headphones if you want details. Streaming if you just want to vibe.

Final Thoughts on Montara

A Timeless Album with a Relaxed Soul

Montara isn’t about showing off. It’s about feeling good, staying loose, and letting great musicians do what they do best. And honestly? That’s why it still hits today.

Conclusion

Montara proves that sometimes the coolest move an artist can make is to slow down and enjoy the groove. Bobby Hutcherson created an album that’s welcoming, timeless, and endlessly replayable. Whether you’re a jazz newbie or a longtime fan, this record feels like an open invitation—just press play and relax.