Sonny Rollins Saxophone Colossus | 2022 AP Reissue, Mono, 33rpm

Description

For once, an album title that doesnt misrepresent the artist. Newk has been making music of the very highest calibre for well over half a century, but this session could just well be his greatest achievement. And like so many classic albums of the period, it was taped in a single session, in the summer of 1956. The playing of all four musicians concerned: Rollins, Tommy Flanagan, Watkins and Roach is of the highest order to where the passing of 54-years hasnt in any way diminished its sheer vitality. Truth: it sounds even more contemporary today than way back then with recordist Rudy Van Gelder faithfully capturing the sheer depth of Rollins delivery. Though Saint Thomas and Moritat (Mack The Knife) are this albums best known tracks a knowing interpretation of You Dont Know What Love Is is surely the jewel in this crown. As a bonus the Work Time album, recorded six months earlier has the leader and Roach bookending Ray Bryant and George Morrow and, as they say, adds extra value. For budding saxophonists, your first lesson starts here. – Jazzwise.com