On album number six, Herbie Hancock finds a very exciting conceptual umbrella: to face all forms of childhood the very tense time at the end of the 60s, which was marked by riots, poverty, wars and a more than an uncertain stock market situation. Here explicitly no childish behaviour was supposed, but the patterns from childhood, which one often fails as an adult: purity, spontaneity, curiosity, naivety, and pure uncontrolled joy. Thus, in his five original compositions and ‘First trip’, which the always inspiring Ron Carter dedicated to his own son, Mr. Hancock addresses a truly timeless theme and translates that into timeless modern jazz with awesome arrangements, stunning melodies, and his distinctive piano style.

‘Speak like a child’ is to be understood as an extension of the ground-breaking album ‘Maiden Voyage’, you can clearly hear how Mr. Hancock wants to go further, to develop himself and the music he loves ahead. He says ‚I’m more concerned with sounds than chords’, at the same time he is looking for a musical expression that is right between jazz and rock. He tries a freer approach to harmonies, but keeps the power of ‚simple, singable melodies’. Most amazingly, the sensationally precise horn section does not play a single solo on this record. This is unusual, especially on a label like Blue Note. An extraordinary production, with answers to difficult times, positive thinking and hope.

Stefan Mohr