1975 White b label stereo. Cut corner. Features Grachan Moncur, Woody Shaw, Lamont Johnson, Scott Holt, Rashied Ali And Barbara Simmons. Tracks Are: "Soul," "Conversion Point," "Big Ben's Voice," "Dear Nick, Dear John" And "Erdu." "Bout Soul," the 1969 album by Jackie McLean, stands as a pivotal moment in the alto saxophonist's illustrious career. Emerging during a period marked by political and social upheaval, the record captures McLean's explorative spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz. Unlike some of his earlier hard bop work, "Bout Soul" delves into the avant-garde, merging experimental techniques with deeply emotive expressions. The presence of pianist LaMont Johnson, bassist Scotty Holt, drummer Billy Higgins, and percussionist Jack DeJohnette creates a rich, textured soundscape. This ensemble facilitates McLean’s exploration of dissonance and modality, with each track serving as a testament to his quest for authenticity and depth.

The album's highlight is perhaps the extended piece "Soul," where McLean's alto saxophone becomes a vessel for a raw and unfiltered emotive journey. His playing is both frenetic and contemplative, illustrating a master storyteller's ability to convey complex narratives without uttering a single word. The inclusion of vocal elements, a rarity in McLean's work, adds a layer of spiritual urgency and reflects the cultural and historical context of the late 1960s. Throughout "Bout Soul," McLean demonstrates an unwavering dedication to artistic growth and social commentary, making the album not just a product of its time, but a timeless exploration of the human condition through the lens of jazz.