Judgment! is a studio album by American jazz pianist Andrew Hill, recorded and released in 1964 on Blue Note Records. Accompanied by drummer Elvin Jones, bassist Richard Davis and vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson - Hill weaves his music around complex harmonic structures.

The pieces

The first track, "Siete Ocho", meaning "Seven Eight", is in 7/8. "Flea Flop" was named "for the first notes of the melody, which seemed to suggest a jumping flea. This is also dedicated to the hotels and motels that jazz sidemen are obliged to stay in all over the country." The composition "Yokada Yokada" was named after the song "Yakety Yak", referring to "senseless dialogue between people," whilst "Alfred" was dedicated to producer Alfred Lion because of his "natural understanding of jazz in general." The title track "Judgment" was inspired by a poem written by Hill's wife, Lavern. "Reconciliation" addresses "the adjustment every musician has to make to achieve unity and harmony with the rest of the group."

Track listing

All compositions by Andrew Hill

Personnel