The First Milestone

Recorded in November 1999 and released in early 2000, The First Milestone represents a significant peak in Eric Alexander's early career. While Alexander had already established himself as a formidable talent, this session for Milestone Records solidified his reputation as the premier modern standard-bearer for the hard bop tradition. The inclusion of guitar legend Pat Martino was a masterstroke, providing a harmonic depth and a different soloistic foil than Alexander's usual piano-heavy lineups. The presence of Harold Mabern on piano is equally crucial; as Alexander's mentor, Mabern brings a deep, bluesy authority to the session that grounds the younger players. The album features a mix of well-chosen standards and Alexander originals, showcasing his growth as a composer. Critics, notably from AllMusic and The Penguin Guide to Jazz, praised the album for its 'mainstream' excellence and the 'gracious reserve' of its power. It remains a definitive example of the polished, high-fidelity jazz production style of the era.