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Mercy, Mercy is a 1968 live album by Buddy Rich and his big band, recorded at Caesars Palace.

“This CD reissue brings back the finest all-round recording by Buddy Rich’s big band. The original version of “Channel 1 Suite” is a classic and contains tenor saxophonist Don Menza’s most memorable solo, plus a couple of brilliant improvisations from the explosive drummer/leader. Another highlight is an inventive Phil Wilson arrangement of “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy,” and even “Alfie” (a melodic feature for altoist Art Pepper) and “Ode to Billie Joe” come across well. In addition to the original LP program, three selections were released for the first time on this CD. “Chelsea Bridge” is particularly significant, for it showcases Pepper, who was making a brief (and unsuccessful) comeback seven years before he finally returned to the scene. This spirited and often-exciting set is a real gem and is essential.” – Scott Yanow/AllMusic.

Track listing:

LP side A

“Mercy, Mercy, Mercy” (Joe Zawinul) – 5:34
“Preach and Teach” (Johnny Burke) – 4:06
“Channel One Suite” (Bill Reddie) – 12:50

LP side B

“Big Mama Cass” (Don Sebesky) – 3:22
“Goodbye Yesterday” (Don Piestrup) – 6:18
“Acid Truth” (Don Menza) – 5:50
“Alfie” (Burt Bacharach, Hal David) – 3:49
“Ode to Billie Joe” (Bobby Gentry) – 3:39

Bonus tracks added to 1997 Blue Note CD reissue:

“Chavala” (Jerry Bock, Sheldon Harnick) – 5:20
“Mr. Lucky” (Jerry Livingston, Henry Mancini) – 5:47
“Chelsea Bridge” (Billy Strayhorn) – 5:09

Personnel:
The Buddy Rich big band:
Buddy Rich – drums
Walter Namuth – guitar
Gary Walters – double bass, electric bass
Joe Azarello – piano
Charles Owens – alto saxophone
Art Pepper – alto saxophone
Pat LaBarbera – tenor saxophone
Don Menza – tenor saxophone
John Laws – baritone saxophone
Jim Trimble – trombone
Rick Stepton – trombone
Peter Graves – bass trombone
Al Porcino – trumpet
David Culp – trumpet
Kenneth Faulk – trumpet
Bill Prince – trumpet

Arrangers:

Don Menza
Allyn Ferguson
Charles Owens
Don Piestrup
Bill Reddie
Don Sebesky
Phil Wilson

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Released: 1968
Recorded: 1968
Length: 45:28
Label: Pacific Jazz
Producer: Richard Bock