Album: Silence

Introduction
"Silence" is a jazz album by American drummer and bandleader Billy Higgins, released in 1987. It includes some of the leading artists of the time, including tenor saxophonist Chico Freeman, trumpeter Eddie Henderson, guitar player Kenny Burrell, bassist Buster Williams, and vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson. The album showcases Higgins' exceptional expertise as a drummer and his passion to work together with exceptional musicians in developing a cohesive and engaging noise.

The album was tape-recorded at Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, and produced by Orrin Keepnews, a legendary figure in jazz production and the creator of the Riverside Records label. "Silence" significant Billy Higgins' third album launched under the Red Records label, which also included his previous getaways "Soweto" (1980) and "Bridgework" (1987).

Structure and Musical Style
"Silence" comprises 9 tracks that check out various jazz styles, such as tough bop, post-bop, and modal jazz. Each piece is a display for the distinct perceptiveness and technical proficiency of the artists included.

The opening track "Sextant" is an uptempo hard bop number with tight ensemble work and energetic solos from Henderson and Freeman. Higgins's drumming on this track is exact and complex, and he supplies a strong foundation for the remainder of the band. "Fail Safe" is another difficult bop piece defined by its catchy riff-based style and the strong swing feel of Higgins' drumming.

"Bolivar Blues" is a bluesy mid-tempo piece that permits the artists to extend and explore their improvisational abilities. Burrell's guitar work is particularly notable in this track, displaying blues and bop affects. Moreover, the title track "Silence" uses a reflective, introspective ballad with a beautiful tune played by Hutcherson on the vibraphone, followed by an expressive tenor sax solo by Freeman.

"Bahia" is a breezy bossa nova track, showcasing Higgins' flexibility behind the drum package. The rich arrangement of the piece, especially the guitar and vibraphone interplay, transfers the listener to the bright coasts of Brazil.

"Midnight Sun" is a jazz requirement, and in this version, Burrell plays with terrific sensitivity and subtlety, making it a standout minute on the record.

Important Reception
Upon its release, "Silence" was popular by critics and fans alike for its engaging compositions, skillful musicianship, and lively energy. Critics kept in mind the album's mix of various jazz designs and the ability of the artists to produce a cohesive and unified sound.

Different individual efficiencies on the album were praised, with specific attention offered to Higgins' exceptional drumming and the chemistry in between the musicians. Moreover, the album was admired for its production quality, with famous manufacturer Orrin Keepnews getting acknowledgment for recording the essence and enjoyment of the band's efficiency in the studio.

Legacy and Influence
Over three decades since its release, "Silence" remains an important and interesting jazz recording, highlighting the artistry of Billy Higgins and his associates. The album holds its own along with other acclaimed works from 1987, such as Wynton Marsalis's "Marsalis Standard Time, Vol. 1" and Tony Williams's "Civilization".

Through his collaborative approach and determination to check out different jazz genres, Billy Higgins left an enduring influence on the planet of jazz. The album "Silence" serves as an engaging showcase of his musicianship and is a testament to his enduring tradition.