Empyrean Isles is the fourth studio album by American jazz pianist Herbie Hancock, recorded in 1964 for Blue Note Records. It features Hancock with his Miles Davis bandmates, bassist Ron Carter and drummer Tony Williams, along with trumpeter Freddie Hubbard. Recording and music The album was recorded at Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, on June 17, 1964. Freddie Hubbard plays cornet rather than his typical trumpet. The four compositions are Hancock originals written over a two-year period. Release and reception Empyrean Isles was released by Blue Note Records. AllMusic reviewer Stephen Thomas Erlewine called it "a record that officially established Hancock as a major artist in his own right." Track listing All compositions by Herbie Hancock Personnel Herbie Hancock – piano Freddie Hubbard – cornet Ron Carter – bass Tony Williams – drums References 1964 albums Blue Note Records albums Herbie Hancock albums Albums produced by Alfred Lion Albums recorded at Van Gelder Studio Hard bop albums Modal jazz albums Soul jazz albums