The album is a poignant social concept piece dedicated to the memory of , who was assassinated just a year prior to the recording. Hancock used the metaphor of "the prisoner" to express the long-standing social and psychological imprisonment of Black people in America.
: A hopeful conclusion to the original LP. Notable Reissues Herbie Hancock - The Prisoner (1969, 1995, Blue...
: A reflection on the atmosphere of the civil rights struggle. The album is a poignant social concept piece
Building on the orchestral textures of his 1968 album Speak Like a Child , Hancock expanded his palette into a nonet (nine-piece band). The ensemble features an unusual combination of woodwinds and brass, including bass clarinet and alto flute, which provided a rich, dark tonal color. : Piano, Electric Piano Johnny Coles : Flugelhorn Joe Henderson : Tenor Saxophone, Alto Flute Garnett Brown : Trombone Buster Williams : Bass Albert "Tootie" Heath : Drums Notable Reissues : A reflection on the atmosphere
The album consists of five primary tracks, with several reissues including alternate takes:
At the time of its release, Hancock remarked that he felt closer to his "real self" through this music than on any previous recording. Musical Direction and Personnel