Genre > Jazz

1. Mil Dew
2. Chicago Calling
3. These Foolish Things
4. The Boy Next Door
5. Nice And Easy
6. It's All Right With Me
7. Lover Man

Impulse, the new record company founded by Bob Thiele, was where Charlie Mingus made his musical home at the end of 1962. And with his very first album, entitled “The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady”, the double bass player produced a masterwork of the very highest order; this time it was his compositional talent rather than his instrument which was in the limelight. He added a good portion of rhythmic variety to the melodiousness of his ‘hero’ Duke Ellington and then added a touch of politics, for even in 1963 slavery had by no means been fully abolished in ‘American Society’! That is the explanation for the title of the suite – a harking back to African roots, the struggle for human rights for black people on all levels of political and cultural society, and a vision of ‘Freedom Day’!Though Charlie Mariano’s tenor saxophone is spotlighted soloistically, it is really the varying timbres and changes in tempo that make all 39 minutes of this LP a sheer pleasure to listen to.

But Charlie Mingus does not demand that his public merely sit and listen to his music; he wants them to get up and dance to it. No, it’s not ballet music – more an inspiration for expressing oneself in movement.

The old Impulse pressings with their wonderful gatefold sleeves were almost always disappointing from a technical point of view because the LPs contained too much re-cycled vinyl. Now, after almost 40 years, we have the opportunity to bestow the studio technique with the recognition it deserves. This is the music that everyone always wanted to take with them on their desert island.

This title is not eligible for further discount.

This 1960 trio date was pianist Parlan’s first of many great releases for Blue Note. The Pittsburgh native, who overcame polio as a child that left his right hand crippled, had gained some serious props with his contributions on two of Charles Mingus’ best albums the year prior (Mingus Ah Um, Blues And Roots), and was now ready to step out on his own. Choosing to tackle mostly standards, Parlan channels his idol Bud Powell’s classic trio dates with the able assistance of Blue Note regulars Sam Jones, bass, and drummer Al Harewood. The result is an eclectic mix, interpreting the works of Tadd Dameron, Duke Ellington, Milt Jackson, and Burke-Van Heusen plus a Parlan original, “Up In Cynthia’s Room�, which became one of his signature pieces. This Classic Blue Note Signature LP Reissue Series release was mastered and cut on Classic’s ALL TUBE MONO cutting system allowing the listener to hear the music as Rudy Van Gelder mixed and intended it to be heard – in PURE MONO with no “faux stereo� artifacts from using a stereo cutter head! As always this release features authentic tip on jackets with film laminate front covers. Try and find an original that looks and sounds this good at any price!

1. On The Spur of The Moment
2. Skoo Chee
3. And That I Am So In Love
4. Al's Tune
5. Ray C.
6. Pyramid

Maybe not exactly the first ‘Dizzy’ that comes to mind when discussing jazz, this Jamaican-born, British-raised trumpeter overcame whatever burdens that nickname may have wrought, to become a highly respected player in the New York scene. He enhanced that rep by recording some truly excellent albums for the Savoy, Blue Note and Prestige labels among others. Christened Alphonso Son Reece, his robust and passionate playing styles always seemed to inspire other musicians in his company. The contributions by the esteemed trio invited; pianist Walter Bishop, Jr., bassist Doug Watkins and drummer Art Taylor unilaterally match the front-man’s fire and bold approach to each tune. Straight-ahead bop versions of American Song Book greats “Our Love Is Here To Stay”, “Once In A While” and “(I Don’t Stand A) Ghost Of A Chance” standout, as does the Reece’s original composition, “ Blue Streak”. Another installment in the Classic Blue Note Signature LP reissue Series featuring authentic tip on jackets with film laminate front covers. Mastered and cut on Classic’s ALL TUBE MONO cutting system and cutter head makes this the definitive version of this LP and possibly better than impossible to find original copies!

1. I Don't Stand a Ghost of a Chance With You
2. Blue Streak
3. Once in a While
4. Eb- Pop
5. Yesterdays
6. Love Is Here to Stay

John Coltrane's development as an improviser accelerated in the mid-1950s when he was with Miles Davis. During six months of 1957 with Thelonious Monk in a celebrated engagement at New York's Five Spot Cafe, it went into overdrive. Coltrane said later, "Working with Monk brought me close to a musical architect of the highest order. I felt I learned from him in every way - through the senses, theoretically, technically." Because of the artists' conflicting contractual agreements, Jazzland (Riverside's sister label) was unable to capture the Monk quartet live a the Five Spot. Producer Orrin Keepnews managed to record three studio tracks that did not see the light of day until the sixties. "Ruby, My Dear," "Trinkle, Tinkle" and "Nutty" let us hear what all the excitement was about. "Off Minor" and "Epistrophy" find Monk and Coltrane in a septet that included the great Coleman Hawkins. This record also includes "Functional," an unforgettable Monk solo blues.

Ruby, My Dear
Trinkle, Tinkle
Off Minor
Nutty
Epistrophy
Functional

1. Song For My Father
2. The Natives Are Restless Tonight
3. Calcutta Cutie
4. Que Pasa
5. The Kicker
6. Lonely Woman

1. Who's Making Love?
2. Turtle Walk
3. Bonnie
4. Hot Dog
5. It's Your Thing

This album is not eligible for any further discounts

Sonny Clark was ubiquitous at Blue Note sessions and led a handful of great albums of his own along the way. Cool Struttin' has a wonderful after-hours feel, especially on the extended title blues and it is undoubtedly the highlight of Clark's prolific career. The recording opens with the aptly named title cut, as Clark's jaunty, forward-leaning piano drives the tune with crisp precision. The rest of the album is a sterling example of a late-50s, finger-poppin' bop session featuring a virtual who's who of Blue Note's then-rising young crop of hard-bop stars including trumpeter Art Farmer, saxophonist Jackie McClean, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Philly Joe Jones. Now here on Limited Edition 180g Japanese Import LP!

Sonny Clark Cool Struttin' Track Listing

1. Cool Struttin'
2. Blue Minor
3. Sippin' At Bells
4. Deep Night
5. Royal Flush
6. Lover

This album is not eligible for any further discounts

The quartet setting is a demanding one for the trumpet and Lee Morgan was only 19 years old when he cut this masterpiece. He is unceasingly inventive on this interesting mix of standards, pop tunes and jazz pieces and the rhythm section of Sonny Clark, Doug Watkins and Art Taylor is superb throughout. Candy is a quintissential document of the easy swing and tight ensemble work that was prominant before the onset of hard-bop and free-jazz of the '60s. Now available here on the smooth sounding Limited Edition 180g Japanese Import LP!

Lee Morgan Candy Track Listing

1. Candy
2. Since I Fell For You
3. C.T.A.
4. All the Way
5. Who Do You Love, I Hope
6. Personality
7. All At Once You Love Her

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

"I have my two new Blue Note LPs here and as I sit writing this I am listening to the Dexter Gordon, WOW!…sitting here listening to this wonderful music, just clean, no background noise, a black background, like the studio that they recorded this in, it is wonderful. The instruments coming out of the sound stage positioned as they were recorded, this is a real treat." – Miller Steel, Acoustic Sounds customer

"...these first five Acoustic Sounds Blue Note re-issues are pure bop genius...The best news is that Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman were keen enough to do nothing more than gently clean up the masters, bringing us even closer to the hard bop edge. The 45 rpm pressings that I received were all super quiet with every last drop of resolution from the master tapes. I had almost forgotten just how good Paul Chambers and Phil Joe were together as the backbone of these groups. I've always loved this music but I didn't remember it sounding this good! Hank Mobley offers us some brilliant sax bits on one of Kenny Dorham's finest recordings, Whistle Stop and Dexter Gordon's performance blew me away as well. The biggest surprise were the Lee Morgan records. I suggest turning these up loud, since they possess unlimited energy and some hooks that will knock you out. Amazing! Just a small warning: Once you start playing these Blue Note recordings you will be hooked. The good news is that Acoustic Sounds is working on at least 20 more of these jazz gems. So make sure your turntable has a setting for 45 rpm, clean your stylus occassionally, and get ready to be transported to nirvana." - Dan Babineau, Tone Audio, No. 14 2008, www.tonepublications.com

"I have just listened, in succession, to my mono and early stereo versions of each LP. I have purchased other similar reissues over the years, but find the engineering and pressing of this 45rpm/180 series to be superior to all to others. This is particularly since I find many new releases to be of inferior quality or handling during manufacture, despite being re-engineered and of heavier vinyl." – Barry Paulson, Acoustic Sounds customer

Dexter Gordon connects immediately with the sublime rhythm section of Kenny Drew, Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones on this, his second Blue Note album. The material ranges from Drew originals to pieces from Gordon's score for the Los Angeles production of "The Connection" to stunning performances of the standards "The End Of A Love Affair" and "Smile."

Track Listings

Soul Sister
Modal Mood
I Want More
The End of a Love Affair
Clear the Dex
Ernie's Tune
Smile
Landslide

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"How do these new deluxe re-issues stack up to the alternatives? Not surprisingly, the big difference comes from the 45-RPM cutting. The faster cutting speed creates greater dynamic range and the sense of more air around the instruments, which stand out in better relief and give that you-are-there feel. The tradeoff requires you to flip the record twice as often, a small price to pay for this level of enhanced realism. These new issues maintain that timbral accuracy and at the same time bring out the piano sound like never before, for the first time Blue Note re-issues sound right." Dennis D. Davis, Hi-Fi+, Issue 57

"As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands. Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me. I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

"...these first five Acoustic Sounds Blue Note re-issues are pure bop genius...The best news is that Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman were keen enough to do nothing more than gently clean up the masters, bringing us even closer to the hard bop edge. The 45 rpm pressings that I received were all super quiet with every last drop of resolution from the master tapes. I had almost forgotten just how good Paul Chambers and Phil Joe were together as the backbone of these groups. I've always loved this music but I didn't remember it sounding this good! Hank Mobley offers us some brilliant sax bits on one of Kenny Dorham's finest recordings, Whistle Stop and Dexter Gordon's performance blew me away as well. The biggest surprise were the Lee Morgan records. I suggest turning these up loud, since they possess unlimited energy and some hooks that will knock you out. Amazing! Just a small warning: Once you start playing these Blue Note recordings you will be hooked. The good news is that Acoustic Sounds is working on at least 20 more of these jazz gems. So make sure your turntable has a setting for 45 rpm, clean your stylus occassionally, and get ready to be transported to nirvana." - Dan Babineau, Tone Audio, No. 14 2008, www.tonepublications.com

This album is unique within Lee Morgan's vast and rich Blue Note discography. With then current employer Art Blakey, band mate Bobby Timmons on piano, Paul Chambers on bass and Jackie McLean on alto saxophone, the trumpeter abandons time constraints and stretches out on four, soulful, hard-bop compositions (the first and the last are by Cal Massey). These hard bop masters are constantly inspired by Blakey's explosive grooves.

These Are Soulful Days
The Lion and the Wolf
Midtown Blues
Nakatini Suite

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"�As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands�Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me�I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." � Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

"...these first five Acoustic Sounds Blue Note re-issues are pure bop genius...The best news is that Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman were keen enough to do nothing more than gently clean up the masters, bringing us even closer to the hard bop edge. The 45 rpm pressings that I received were all super quiet with every last drop of resolution from the master tapes. I had almost forgotten just how good Paul Chambers and Phil Joe were together as the backbone of these groups. I've always loved this music but I didn't remember it sounding this good! Hank Mobley offers us some brilliant sax bits on one of Kenny Dorham's finest recordings, Whistle Stop and Dexter Gordon's performance blew me away as well. The biggest surprise were the Lee Morgan records. I suggest turning these up loud, since they possess unlimited energy and some hooks that will knock you out. Amazing! Just a small warning: Once you start playing these Blue Note recordings you will be hooked. The good news is that Acoustic Sounds is working on at least 20 more of these jazz gems. So make sure your turntable has a setting for 45 rpm, clean your stylus occassionally, and get ready to be transported to nirvana." - Dan Babineau, Tone Audio, No. 14 2008, www.tonepublications.com

Rightfully considered one of Kenny Dorham's best, this album features great originals and great trumpet playing. The superb cast consists of Hank Mobley, Kenny Drew, Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones. The title tune and "Philly Twist" are often heard, but the entire album represents a great composing achievement for KD.

'Philly' Twist
Buffalo
Sunset
Whistle Stop
Sunrise In Mexico
Windmill
Dorham's Epitaph

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

A dedicated disciple of Charlie Parker, alto saxophonist Lou Donaldson focused his energies on the bluesier aspects of his hero's playing and rendered it with a sweeter edge that fashioned him a viable career for decades. His work for Blue Note showed his impressive mastery of the bop style.

Track Listings

Here 'Tis
Watusi Jump
Walk With Me
A Foggy Day
Cool Blues

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Two weeks after Ike Quebec recorded his comeback album Heavy Soul for Blue Note, he was back at the Van Gelder Studio with the same band (Freddie Roach, Milt Hinton and Al Harewood), making a second album. The confidence paid off because It Might As Well Be Spring is every bit the classic the first album proved to be. Quebec's big-toned, vulnerable tenor playing is a thing to behold, as his heart-stopping version of the title tune, "Lover Man" and "Willow Weep For Me" attest. "Easy – Don't Hurt" is one of his blues masterpieces.

It Might as Well Be Spring
A Light Reprieve
Easy - Don't Hurt
Lover Man
Ol' Man River
Willow Weep for Me

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Tokyo Blues, a quintessential mid-'60s Blue Note session, is Horace Silver's tribute to the Japanese people who have long supported his funky, Latin-flavored modern jazz. American jazz has always been wildly popular in Japan, and this album is Silver's homage to the many fans that he has encountered on various triumphant tours of the island nation. While Silver's trademark funky Latin/swing is at the forefront, the inspiration of eastern delights is clearly evident in all aspects of this grooving date.

Track Listings

Too Much Shake
Sayonara Blues
The Tokyo Blues
Cherry Blossom
Ah! So

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

John Patton, Grant Green and Ben Dixon were introduced to Blue Note by Lou Donaldson and quickly became the quintessential rhythm section for Blue Note's funkier session. They came together for this, John Patton's first album, with two of the label's tenor saxophonists Fred Jackson and Harold Vick. The double tenors and organ trio make an unbeatable combination for some soulful, swinging music. The title tune and "The Silver Meter" were radio hits that remain among the most popular of Patton's recorded performances.

Track Listings

The Silver Meter
I'll Never Be Free
Spiffy Diffy
Along Came John
Gee Gee
Pig Foots

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Lou Donaldson's undisputed masterpiece, Blues Walk, marks the point where the altoist began to decisively modify his heavy Charlie Parker influence and add a smoky, bluesy flavor of his own. The material is still firmly in the bebop style, and the mellower moments aren't as sleepy as some of Donaldson's subsequent work, so the album sounds vital and distinctive even as it slows down and loosens things up. What elevates Blues Walk to classic status is its inviting warmth. Donaldson's sweetly singing horn is melodic throughout the six selections, making even his most advanced ideas sound utterly good-natured and accessible. The easy-swinging title cut is arguably Donaldson's signature tune even above his late-'60s soul-jazz hits, and his other two originals, "Play Ray" and "Callin' All Cats," are in largely the same vein.

Track Listings

Blues Walk Move
The Masquerade Is Over
Play Ray
Autumn Nocturne
Callin' All Cats

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Dexter Gordon considered this his finest album, and few would disagree. With the perfect rhythm section of Sonny Clark, Butch Warren and Billy Higgins, this tenor giant reinvents standards like "Three O'clock In The Morning," "Second Balcony Jump" and "Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out To Dry" and introduces his most famous composition, "Cheese Cake."

Track Listings

Cheese Cake
I Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out to Dry
Second Balcony Jump
Love for Sale
Where Are You?
Three O'Clock in the Morning

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Paul Chambers' first album features an amazing lineup of John Coltrane, Donald Byrd, Kenny Burrell, Horace Silver and Philly Joe Jones. A classic Blue Note session of what might be considered "cerebral" jazz.

Track Listings

Omicron
Whims Of Chambers
Nita
We Six
Dear Ann
Tale Of The Fingers
Just For The Love

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Hank Mobley was a perfect artist for Blue Note in the 1960s. On this LP, which is a straight reissue of the 1965 session, Mobley is joined by trumpeter Lee Morgan, trombonist Curtis Fuller, pianist McCoy Tyner, bassist Bob Cranshaw and drummer Billy Higgins (a typically remarkable Blue Note lineup) for the infectious title cut, three other lesser-known but superior originals, plus Wayne Shorter's "Venus Di Mildew."

Track Listings

A Caddy For Daddy
The Morning After
Venus Di Mildew
Ace Deuce Trey
3rd Time Around

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

John Coltrane's most important and best selling album after A Love Supreme. This was the first fully realized masterpiece by Coltrane. The superbly executed and blended ensembles have a haunting quality and each solo is a memorable treasure.

Track Listings

Blue Train
Moment's Notice
Locomation
I'm Old Fashioned
Lazy Bird

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

One of the best known record dates in the history of modern jazz, the chemistry among Adderley, Miles Davis, Hank Jones, Sam Jones and Art Blakey is amazing. Their reworkings of "Autumn Leaves" and "Love For Sale" are masterpieces. Miles' title tune and Nat Adderley's "One For Daddy-O" are classics.

Track Listings

Autumn Leaves
Love For Sale
Somethin' Else
One For Daddy-O
Dancing In the Dark

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

"...these first five Acoustic Sounds Blue Note re-issues are pure bop genius...The best news is that Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman were keen enough to do nothing more than gently clean up the masters, bringing us even closer to the hard bop edge. The 45 rpm pressings that I received were all super quiet with every last drop of resolution from the master tapes. I had almost forgotten just how good Paul Chambers and Phil Joe were together as the backbone of these groups. I've always loved this music but I didn't remember it sounding this good! Hank Mobley offers us some brilliant sax bits on one of Kenny Dorham's finest recordings, Whistle Stop and Dexter Gordon's performance blew me away as well. The biggest surprise were the Lee Morgan records. I suggest turning these up loud, since they possess unlimited energy and some hooks that will knock you out. Amazing! Just a small warning: Once you start playing these Blue Note recordings you will be hooked. The good news is that Acoustic Sounds is working on at least 20 more of these jazz gems. So make sure your turntable has a setting for 45 rpm, clean your stylus occassionally, and get ready to be transported to nirvana." - Dan Babineau, Tone Audio, No. 14 2008, www.tonepublications.com

In terms of composition, leadership and playing, this is probably Jackie McLean's greatest album, culled from two different sessions, separated by 20 months. A sextet session with Tina Brooks and Blue Mitchell.

Track Listings

Quadrangle
Blues Inn
Fidel
Appointment in Ghana
A Ballad for Doll
Isle of Java
Street Singer
Melonae's Dance
Medina [*]

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Time is suspended on these haunting, extended tunes by this brilliant guitarist with the aid of an all-star cast. Unique in Green's discography for its relaxed, lengthy performances and almost dream-like lyricism, this Blue Note classic could well be called Ballads for the Ages.

Track Listings

Idle Moments
Jean De Fleur
Jean De Fleur (Alternate Version)
Django
Django (Alternate Version)
Nomad

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Art Blakey's most successful album gave us Bobby Timmons' "Moanin'" and Benny Golson's "Along Came Betty" and "Blues March," tunes so powerful that Blakey played them almost every night for the next 30 years. This beautifully performed and recorded session made the Jazz Messengers a jazz institution and put Golson, Timmons and Morgan to the forefront of jazz.

Track Listings

Moanin'
Are You Real
Along Came Betty
The Drum Thunder (Minature) Suite
Blues March
Come Rain or Come Shine

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

The Three Sounds were part of the trio explosion. Begun in 1956 in Benton Harbor, Michigan as the Four Sounds and consisting of Gene Harris on piano, Andrew Simpkins on bass and Bill Dowdy on drums (the saxophonist was dropped by the time the group moved to Washington, D.C. in 1957), the Sounds eventually migrated to New York City where they were "discovered" by Lou Donaldson. After a single record for Riverside with Nat Adderley, the Three Sounds signed an exclusive contract with Alfred Lion on Blue Note Records. Over the course of five years, the Sounds released nine LPs and appeared on albums by Lou Donaldson and Stanley Turrentine.

Track Listings

Besame Mucho
Angel Eyes
Time After Time
Love Walked In
I Could Write a Book
Jinne Lou
Nothing Ever Changes My Love for You
Falling in Love With Love

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"...As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands. Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me. I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." --Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Green Street, recorded on April 1, 1961, was Grant Green's second Blue Note album as a leader and remains one of the finest albums of his prolific Blue Note output. Supported by just Ben Tucker's bass and Dave Bailey's drums, the guitarist seems inspired by the absence of any other chordal instrument. His harmonic and interpretive imagination is in high gear on this unique masterpiece in his discography.

Track Listings

No. 1 Green Street
'Round About Midnight
Grant's Dimensions
Green With Envy
Alone Together

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

This program of sultry, minor key music with a Brazilian tinge seems inspired by Ike Quebec, who was suffering from advanced cancer that would claim his life three months later. But here is big-toned, impassioned tenor is in tact. Quebec's take on the bossa nova craze that explored that year (1962) is more muscular than Stan Getz's and doesn't rely on the familiar Jobim and Gilberto songs of the day. He and Kenny Burrell solo on the sly, subtle rhythms of Wendell Marshall, Willie Bobo and Garvin Masseaux.

Track Listings

Loie
Lloro Tu Despedida
Goin' Home
Me 'N You
Liebestraum
Shu Shu
Blue Samba
Favela
Linda Flor

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Alfred Lion considered this his favorite production and well he should have. Without piano, Burrell, Stanley Turrentine and company get a clean open sound and a deep groove on such now classic compositions as the title tune and "Chitlins Con Carne," which has become a blues band staple.

Track Listings

Chittlins Con Carne
Mule
Soul Lament
Midnight Blue
Wavy Gravy
Gee Baby Ain't I Good to You
Saturday Night Blues

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

Page One introduced the jazz world to the unusually mature and original young tenor saxophonist, Joe Henderson. "Recorda Me" and "Blue Bossa" have become jazz classics for their mix of Brazilian rhythms with Hard Bop muscle.

Track Listings

Blue Bossa
La Mesha
Homestretch
Recorda Me
Jinrikisha
Out of the Night

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Blue Note Reissue

"…As much as I'd love to relay all kinds of anecdotes about the challenges Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray encounter during the mastering sessions, I witness none. These boys know the sound of the facility and the Van Gelder masters like the backs of their hands…Back home a month later, I unpack some test pressings Chad Kassem has sent me…I hear the most realistic-sounding drums ever reproduced by my system. It's as though I'm sitting at the point of creation, experiencing the same high that brought such gifted musicians together as one. Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray, Chad Kassem, and Don MacInnis have done Rudy Van Gelder and his Blue Note artists proud." – Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile, April 2008

In Hootin' 'N Tootin', the listener is afforded the opportunity of hearing numbers of a famous orchestra noted for its smart arrangements along the rhythm and blues influence. The moods expressed are in the "down home" and "down to Earth" groove. Under the leadership of Fred Jackson, tenor sax, the listener is propelled into the world of the new truth.

Track Listings

1. Dippin' in the Bag
2. Southern Exposure
3. Preach Brother
4. Hootin' 'N Tootin'
5. Easin' on Down
6. That's Where It's At
7. Way Down Home

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

"… …Passionate, mysterious, intricate, earthy, ethereal, moody and mystical, the rich musical improvisations on this recording defy categorization…The recording is as astonishing as the music: a harmonically complex, three dimensional, two-microphone purist production that will easily take its place at the top of the sonic heap in your record collection and that's a guarantee…this is among the most spacious, convincing three-dimensional recordings you will ever hear…An essential record in any 21st century vinyl collection." Music = 11/11; Sound = 11/11 – Michael Fremer, Music Angle, www.musicangle.com

"The quintessential 2 mic Blumlein recording, a musical extravaganza – on 45rpm it destroys the early '90s CD!" – Danny Kaey, Positive-Feedback Online

"…Astonishingly, the four conversational yet adventurous tracks captured on A Meeting by the River were unrehearsed jams between the two masters, who had met only minutes before the session. The lesson is that Cooder and Bhatt not only knew how to play, but how to listen." – Daniel Durchholz, Stereophile, February 2007

American composer, musicologist and guitar legend Ry Cooder teams with North Indian musician Vishwa Mohan Bhatt to create an exquisite musical realm, with both musicians playing exceptional slide guitar. Their collaboration evokes musical elements from many cultures and styles. Percussion by Sukhvindar Singh on tabla and Cooder's 14-year-old son Joachim on dumbek. This recording won a Grammy Award.

1. A Meeting By The River
2. Longing
3. Ganges Delta Blues
4. Isa Lei

This title is not eligible for further discount.

For Ben Webster, his Los Angeles years of the late 1950's and early 1960's held massive frustration that was relieved by only a few high points. Jobs were scarce, and the lack of recognition and appreciation must have been heartbreaking for this tenor saxophone giant who felt things deeply. A bright spot for Webster was that when he worked, it was often with the splendid band in this album. In Jimmy Rowles, Jim Hall, Red Mitchell and Frank Butler, he had sympathetic and inspirational colleagues. This live recording captures their remarkable empathy.

Mastered by Doug Sax.

1. Caravan
2. Georgia On My Mind
3. Ole Miss Blues
4. What Is This Thing Called Love
5. Stardust
6. Mop Mop

Mastered off the original 2-track tape recorded with a tube AKG-C12 microphone on a tube Ampex 350 machine. Features Ray Brown on bass and Shelly Manne on drums. Over his long and distinguished career, Sonny Rollins has made many dozens of albums. Among those recorded during the fifties, Prestige's Movin' Out and Colossus, Blue Note's A Night at the Village Vanguard, Riverside's The Sound of Sonny, and Way Out West on Contemporary qualify as all-time Rollins classics.

The session for Way Out West, Rollins' first ever in California, was called for 3 a.m. to accommodate everyone's busy schedules. Sonny, who could never be accused of overstatement, announced after four hours of recording: "I'm hot now."

Mastered by Doug Sax.

"Way Out West is a piano-less trio - another va-va-vivid Roy DuNann production - with Rollins spinning quirky geometric patterns through odd standards like 'I'm an Old Cow Hand.'" - Fred Kaplan, The Absolute Sound, December 2005 (included in Kaplan's "Best-Sounding Jazz LPs")

1. I'm An Old Cowhand
2. Solitude
3. Come, Gone
4. Wagon Wheels
5. There Is No Greater Love
6. Way Out West

A tireless showman and an underrated musical talent, Louis Prima swung his way to iconic status thanks to an irresistible, infectious sound thats appeal has translated across generations. Normally a swing artist, Prima's distinctive sound also encompassed New Orleans-style jazz, boogie-woogie, jump blues, R&B, early rock and roll, and even the occasional Italian tarantella. Regardless of what form his music took, it swung hard and fast, with a rolling, up-tempo shuffle beat. His greatest period of popularity coincided with his marriage to singer Keely Smith, whose coolly sophisticated vocals and detached stage manner made a perfect counterpoint to Prima's boisterous presence. A veritable greatest-hits album, The Wildest is an absolute gem in Louis Prima's catalog.

1. Medley: Just A Gigolo/I Ain’t Got Nobody
2. (Nothing’s Too Good) For My Baby
3. The Lip
4. Body And Soul
5. Oh Marie
6. Medley: Basin Street Blues/ When It’s Sleepy Time Down South
7. Jump, Jive And Wail
8. Buona Sera
9. Night Train
10. (I’ll Be Glad When You’re Dead) You Rascal You

This title is not eligible for further discount.

1. Monk's Mood
2. Evidence
3. Crepescule with Nellie
4. Nutty
5. Epistrophy
6. Bye-Ya
7. Sweet and Lovely
8. Blue Monk
9. Epistrophy

Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey re-emerges with their most mind-expanding album yet, Lil Tae Rides Again. The fearless trio from Tulsa, Oklahoma appeared for only a handful of tour dates and summer festivals in 2007. Rumors swirled among fans regarding the reasons for such scarcity. They simply went underground to create music on their own terms, in their own universe, on their own timetable.

The trio enlisted eccentric electronic music futurist Tae Meyulks to produce. He shared in the trio's vision to record an album awash in sprawling soundscapes, minimalist melodies and subliminal themes. Lil Tae Rides Again achieves its intent, an Eno-esque masterwork that offers a sustaining aura of psychedelic splendor. As on previous efforts, JFJO define themselves as a mercurial musical force in a constant state of re-imagining their creative horizons. The beauty in JFJO's self-definition is that they are utterly un-definable. Lil Tae Rides Again, but better still, Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey rides again.

1. Autumnal
2. Winter Clothes
3. Tether Ball Triumph
4. Carpool
5. Tae Parade
6. Santiago Lends a Hand
7. Waking the Reluctant Genius
8. Scuffle in the Hall
9. The Votes are Counted
10. Recovering the Time Capsule

A classic set originally cut for the Choice label, Where Is Love is a program of ballads exquisitely interpreted by singer Irene Kral and pianist Alan Broadbent. The tempos are all quite slow, but the emotional yet cool intensity given by Kral and Broadbent leaves no slow moments. Among the songs given definitive and memorable treatment are Blossom Dearie's "I Like You, You're Nice" and Bob Dorough's "Love Came On Stealthy Fingers," "Never Let Me Go," and especially "Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most."

1. I Like You, You're Nice
2. When I Look In Your Eyes
3. A Time For Love / Small World
4. Love Came On Stealthy Fingers
5. Never Let Me Go
6. Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most
7. Lucky To Be Me / Some Other Time
8. Where Is Love?
9. Don't Look Back

This title is not eligible for further discount.

Considered one of his strongest Blue Note outings, Capuchin Swing basically forced McLean to bring in some heavyweights to help define and deliver his vision. First and foremost was Blue Mitchell’s forceful trumpet, chosen to counterpoint the leader’s alto, that was in a feisty mood of it’s own throughout the sessions. Having Walter Bishop, Jr. on piano, Paul Chambers’ bass and Art Taylor banging skins frees the leader’s mind of worry rhythm-wise, allowing him and Mitchell to co-explore new heights of interplay. The intensity on McLean originals such as “Francisco”, “Condition Blue” and the title tune are both riveting and sometimes draining, while Bishop contributes both “Just For Now” plus another dedication to the label founder, “On The Lion”. This Classic Blue Note Signature LP Reissue Series release was mastered and cut on Classic’s ALL TUBE MONO cutting system allowing the listener to hear the music as Rudy Van Gelder mixed and intended it to be heard – in PURE MONO with no “faux stereo” artifacts from using a stereo cutter head! As always this release features authentic tip on jackets with film laminate front covers. Try and find an original that looks and sounds this good at any price!

Francisco
Just for Now
Don't Blame Me
Condition Blue
Capuchin Swing
On the Lion

This title not eligible for any further discounts.

Another one of Blue Note’s multi-talents who, as did label-mate Ike Quebec, besides recording a cadre of well-received albums, went on to produce titles for the label. On this, his second album for Blue Note, Atlanta native Pearson goes the trio route, giving the selections a relaxed but also highly lyrical keyboard approach. Gene Taylor’s bass and Lex Humphries’ drumming perfectly complete and balance the triad, with strong arrangements of “On Green Dolphin Street”, “When Sunny Gets Blue” and “I’m A Fool To Want You”. This Classic Blue Note Signature LP Reissue Series release was mastered and cut on Classic’s ALL TUBE MONO cutting system allowing the listener to hear the music as Rudy Van Gelder mixed and intended it to be heard – in PURE MONO with no “faux stereo” artifacts from using a stereo cutter head! As always this release features authentic tip on jackets with film laminate front covers. Try and find an original that looks and sounds this good at any price!

1. 3 A.M.
2. I Love You
3. Golden Striker
4. I’m a Fool to Want You
5. Bluebird of Happiness
6. When Sunny Gets Blue
7. On Green Dolphin Street

An excellent 1960 get-together with some fresh faces joining altoist LD. Long under-valued trumpeter Bill Hardman and especially pianist Duke Pearson assist in infusing probably more soul than even Donaldson expected into the arrangements. Augmented by Al Harewood’s impeccable timekeeping and Sam Jones and Laymon Jackson splitting time at the bass, the result is a fine mix, with strong writing contributions all-around. Attention should be paid to the originals offered up by Donaldson (“The Truth”, “Goose Grease”), Parlan (“Blues for J.P”) and Hardman (“Politely”), as should the smooth takes on the commonalities “Softly”, “As In A Morning Sunrise”, “The Man I Love” and “It’s You Or No One”. Mastered and cut on Classic’s ALL TUBE MONO cutting system and cutter head makes this the definitive version of this LP and possibly better than impossible to find original copies!

1. Blues for J.P.
2. Man I Love
3. Politely
4. It's You or No One
5. Truth
6. Goose Grease
7. Softly, As in a Morning Sunrise
8. Way Down upon the Swanee River

A perfect pairing from 1959 of fellow Blue Note roster mates that result in one of Donaldson’s finest pure bop sessions. The trio, anchored by pianist Gene Harris, is a cool departure from standard quintets the front man normally had been booking. Lou’s tenor is the focal point, front and center of course but the threesome, completed by Andy Simpkins on bass and Bill Dowdy behind the drum kit, takes a backseat to no one. With ample support and balance, they assist LD in re-defining Tin Pan Alley ditties such as Blue Moon and Three Little Words into hardened jazz romps while bringing plenty to the table on Donaldson originals such as Smooth Groove and Jump Up. Another installment in the Classic Blue Note Signature LP reissue Series featuring authentic tip on jackets with film laminate front covers. Mastered and cut on Classic’s ALL TUBE MONO cutting system from tape head to cutter head makes this the definitive version of this LP and possibly better than impossible to find original copies!

01. Blue Moon
02. Smooth Groove
03. Jump Up
04. Just Friends
05. Three Little Words
06. Don't Take Your Love from Me
07. Confirmation

Along with his “Songs For My Father”, Blowin’ The Blues Away constantly ranks as one of pianist Horace Silver’s finest group of original compositions. For decades, only former band-mate in the original Jazz Messengers ensemble, Art Blakey, could match Silver in ears for talent and the feeding grounds their groups became, spawning players who later became jazz giants. The group assembled here is no exception. This exact line-up would eventually stay in-tack, becoming the incarnation of the first Blue Mitchell Quintet, with Chick Corea replacing Silver. The afore-mentioned Blue Mitchell along with Junior Cook on tenor, Gene Taylor’s bass and drummer Louis Hayes help Silver deliver a fine mix of tempos including the ballad Peace and the gospel/soul-tinged Sister Sadie, both of which became jazz standards. On The St. Vitus Dance and Melancholy Mood, Silver reverts back to his early trio days with confidence and imagination. As part of the Classic Blue Note Signature LP reissue Series this reissue was mastered and cut on Classic’s ALL TUBE MONO cutting system from tape head to cutter head and featuring authentic tip on jackets with film laminate front covers. Great record – highly recommended!

Blowin' The Blues Away
The St. Vitus Dance
Break City
Peace
Sister Sadie
Baghdad Blues
Melancholy Mood
How Did It Happen

The formula was simple: surround Ella with a small group of virtuoso musicians who were regulars on the Pablo label for a session where informality prevailed and everyone could "stretch out." Ella is in top form, and the song selection includes many standards that are given fresh interpretations. The version of Monk's "Round Midnight" is not to be missed. And with the whole proceedings captured in audiophile-approved sound, this has to rank as one of the strongest dates of Ella's illustrious career.

1. Fine And Mellow
2. I''m Just A Lucky So And So
3. (I Don''t Stand) A Ghost Of A Chance With You
4. Rockin'' In Rhythm
5. I''m In The Mood For Love
6. ''Round Midnight
7. I Can''t Give You Anything But Love
8. The Man I Love
9. Polka Dots And Moonbeams

The original soundtrack from the film 'Blow-up' features the work of both Herbie Hancock (with Freddie Hubbard, Joe Henderson, Ron Carter and Jack DeJohnette) and the Yardbirds (with Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page) to produce a soundtrack full of proto-funk and features the classic 'Bring Down the Birds'.

1. Main Title
2. Verushka Pt.1
3. Verushka Pt.2
4. The naked camera
5. Bring down the birds
6. Jane's theme
7. Stroll on (The Yardbirds)
8. The thief
9. The kiss
10. Curiosity
11. Thomas studies photos
12. The bed
13. End title 'Blow Up'

Absolute Sound Recommended Stereophile Records 2 Die 4 E-Newsletter Archive Preowned LPs Michael Fremer Picks His Favorite In-Print LPs Browse Genre Blues Christmas Classical Female Vocalists Folk Jazz New Age Pop Rock Soundtracks World more Acoustic Sounds Spring Catalog 45 RPM Fantasy Jazz Series Link Exchange Music Music Vinyl Vinyl 45 RPM Vinyl LP Milt Jackson and Wes Montgomery - Bags Meets Wes! click on image to enlarge Bags Meets Wes! Milt Jackson and Wes Montgomery Label: Analogue Productions Genre: Jazz Product No.: AJAZ 9407 Availability: In Stock Format: 45 RPM Vinyl LP Note: Stereo 45 RPM $50.00 Also available on: Hybrid Stereo SACD $18.99 Vinyl Test Pressing $75.00 People who purchased Bags Meets Wes! also bought: Portrait in Jazz Bill Evans Trio + Eleven Art Pepper Blue Gene Gene Ammons Milt Jackson and Wes Montgomery were made to play together. Each had redefined the technical and expressive capacities of their respective instruments, displayed limitless melodic invention and rhythmic resourcefulness, and provided models of honest, unaffected soul. Their pairing occurred when Jackson joined Montgomery as a Riverside recording artist in 1961 and placed them amidst what amounted to the label’s house rhythm section of Wynton Kelly, Sam Jones and Philly Joe Jones. Included in the program of standards and originals is a classic line by each leader, Montgomery’s “Jingles” (one of three tracks also heard in alternate takes) and Jackson’s saucy blues “S.K.J.” The entire session is a model of relaxed, conversational blowing by five masters.

Track Listings
1. S.K.J.
2. Stablemates
3. Stairway To The Stars
4. Blue Roz
5. Sam Sack
6. Jingles
7. Delilah

This title is not eligible for further discount.

LEE MORGAN, trumpet
WAYNE SHORTER, tenor sax
MCCOY TYNER, piano
REGINALD WORKMAN, bass
ELVIN JONES, drums

Night Dreamer
Oriental Folk Song
Virgo
Black Nile
Charcoal Blues
Armageddon

LEE MORGAN, trumpet
BENNIE MAUPIN, tenor saxophone
GEORGE BENSON, guitar
JOHN HICKS, piano
REGGIE WORKMAN, bass
BILLY HIGGINS, drums

Track Listing:
Avotcja One
Haeschen
Dee Lawd
Get Yourself Together
Taru, What's Wrong With You
Durem

LEE MORGAN, trumpet
JACKIE MCLEAN, alto sax
FRANK MITCHELL, tenor sax
CEDAR WALTON, piano
VICTOR SPROLES, bass
BILLY HIGGINS, drums

Track Listing:
The Sixth Sense
Short Count
Psychedelic
Afreaka
Anti Climax
The Cry Of My People

One of the pivotal recordings in bringing about the widespread acceptance of Sonny Rollins as a major figure, Saxophone Colossus inspired critics to write scholarly analysis and fans to revel in the hard-swinging invention, humor, and tender-strength balladry. Up to this album, while most musicians recognized Rollins as one of the new influential forces in the jazz of the Fifties, most critics were carping at Rollins or damning him with faint praise. "St. Thomas," a traditional West Indian melody which Mal Waldron remembered as "The Carnival," was recorded by many artists after Sonny introduced it here, and it remains a jazz standard today. The contributions of Tommy Flanagan's elegant swing, Doug Watkins' steady lift and Max Roach's most musical accompaniment and soloing (hear "Blue 7") make this a landmark album. Mastered by Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray.

Track Listings
1. Strode Rode
2. Blue 7
3. Moritat
4. St. Thomas
5. You Don't Know What Love Is

The Modern Jazz Quartet’s origins, like so much in postwar jazz, were in Dizzy Gillespie’s 1946 big band. Vibraharpist Milt Jackson often joined the rhythm section so that the four could perform as a quartet and give the brass section a rest from Gillespie’s demanding arrangements. Later, they worked as the Milt Jackson Quartet. In the early 1950s, they changed the name to the Modern Jazz Quartet and over the next three and a half decades were one of the most successful and acclaimed small bands in the history of jazz. The MJQ was a leaderless group, but John Lewis functioned as musical director and wrote much of the group’s repertoire. Many of his compositions reflected musical traditions going back to Bach and the Italian renaissance. One of them, "Django," the stately piece named for the virtuoso French gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt, became an instant jazz classic.

"…Django was one of the group's finest albums, and is a welcome addition to the re-issue market. While not audiophile grade recordings, these sessions provide quite good sound given their early provenance. Rudy Van Gelder recorded the later sessions, but the uncreditied 1953 session does not suffer by comparison. I compared the Van Gelder recorded sessions to the original 10" LP. The remastered LP wins hands down, the purity of the vibes being the most conspicuous evidence. I will return to this LP many times." Recording = 7/10; Music = 8/10 – Dennis Davis, Hi-Fi+, Issue 43

“The latest round of Acoustic Sounds’ ‘Fantasy 45 series’ – albums from Fantasy’s Original Jazz Classics catalogue, each reissued on two 180-gram LPs cut at 45rpm – includes two mid-‘50s masterworks…The better part of Django was recorded the day before the Miles session, and John Lewis’ piano sounds fine and present, while Jackson’s vibes seem a bit recessed – which tells you who was in charge. Heath’s bass, once again, is spot-on; you can smell the wood.” – Fred Kaplan, The Absolute Sound, January 2006, Issue 158

The Queen's Fancy
Delaunay's Dilemma
Autumn In New York
But Not For Me
La Ronde Suite
Django
One Bass Hit
Milano

This title is not eligible for further discount.

The Hawk at his finest with features like "A Fellow Needs A Girl" and a version of "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes." Hawkins, of course, is on tenor sax. He's joined by Tommy Flanagan on piano, Major Holly Jr. on bass, and Eddie Locke on drums.

Track Listings
1. I Talk to the Trees
2. Smoke Gets in Your Eyes
3. Wanting You
4. Strange Music
5. The Man That Got Away
6. Get Out of Town
7. Here I'll Stay
8. A Fellow Needs a Girl

This title is not eligible for further discount.

The quintet on this LP was not the first operated by Cannonball Adderley. The gregarious alto saxophonist and his cornetist brother Nat had a band earlier in the 1950s. They formed it shortly after they burst onto the New York scene from Florida, but hard economic breaks forced them to disband and seek work elsewhere. Cannonball went with Miles Davis, Nat with Woody Herman. As the decade wound down, Cannonball’s success with Davis and increased popularity with the public led him to think he was ready to retrieve Nat and again try leadership. He was right. The new Adderley quintet quickly became beloved of listeners in clubs across the country. Nowhere was it more enthusiastically received than at the Jazz Workshop in San Francisco. In the fall of 1959, Adderley called his producer, Orrin Keepnews, and said now was the time and the Workshop was the place to record the quintet live. Keepnews sprang into action. The result was this album, one of the most spectacularly successful — and enjoyable — live recordings in the jazz canon.

"…These master tapes, now owned by Fantasy (now part of the Concord Record Group) are in superb condition, mostly because jazz titles never sold in large numbers and Scotch 111 tape was almost indestructible and held the signal extremely well. Anyone thinking original Riversides were some kind of sonic holy grail, is pulling your stylus: these 45rpm reissues beat originals in most of the ways that count, in my opinion: they are more dynamic, by far, are pressed on better vinyl and offer greater transparency. No wonder certain titles from the first series are already collector's items…I regret not having bought every Riverside title available to me at $1.98 back in 1964, just as thousands of jazz fans will regret missing out on these limited edition double 45rpm LPs from Analog Productions, so if you're even thinking about buying this one, get it while you can!" Music = 9/11; Sound = 9/11 – Michael Fremer, musicangle.com

“…I’m a big fan of this series, and we’re now into the third set of 25 Jazz titles from the Fantasy catalogue (now owned by Concord) and re-issued by Chad Kassem’s Analogue Productions as 180g 45rpm releases. Issuing 45s with music on both sides makes so much more sense than single-sided releases. (Especially as they don’t warp the way single-sided 45s tend to.) I love the work Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray perform with these tapes. Masters the pair!…I can tell you that you won’t get the sound quality and the quiet surfaces this recording offers for $50. The musicians here are playing spontaneously at the Jazz Workshop and you’ve got that ‘club atmosphere’ going for you as well as the master players in the Quintet. Strongly recommended for those who have even the slightest interest in these outstanding musicians.” Recording = 8/10 Music = 8/10 – Richard Foster, Hi-Fi+, Issue 41, page 138

This Here
Spontaneous Combustion
Hi-Fly
You Got It
Bohemia After Dark

This title is not eligible for further discount.

Art Pepper left a legacy of innumerable appearances on records, but his sessions for Contemporary always seemed to find him in the best company and in the best shape. Here his impassioned alto sax is appropriately applied to the compositions of six saxophonists, among them Benny Carter, Ornette Coleman, and Pepper himself. The presence of Jack Sheldon in a rare performance as a small-group trumpeter was another important factor in the album's success.

"The soundstage is spacious and the imaging precise. Pepper is almost in the room (separated by only the thinnest of curtains); you can practically see the air swirling through his alto sax. Pete Jolly's piano is a bit closed-off (as if the lid were shut), but Jimmy Bond's bass thumps and Frank Butler's drumset smacks and sizzles." – Fred Kaplan, The Absolute Sound, March 2006

"…Art Pepper's 'Las Cuevas De Mario' is a wonderfully subtle and convoluted track, built entirely on a subtly insistent rhythm motif that's set up by the bass and piano, before the drums start to add accent and prompts. Against the background foundation Pepper's sax and Jack Sheldon's trumpet play beautiful chorus and call and response melodies. Superbly understated, there's a lot going at once yet the instrumentation stays sparse. A longtime collectible record…" – Roy Gregory, Hi-Fi+, Issue 45

Track Listings
1. Smack Up
2. Las Cuevas De Mario
3. A Bit Of Basie
4. How Can You Lose
5. Maybe Next Year
6. Tears Inside

This title is not eligible for further discount.

Another of the mid-1950s Ammons studio jam sessions for Prestige, Blue Gene lives up to its title by utilizing blues changes as the basis for three of its four selections. Pianist Mal Waldron wrote all these lines and the minor-key ballad, “Hip Tip.” Ammons was one of the most expressive saxophonists and, in Idrees Sulieman and Pepper Adams, he found soulmates among the other horns. Each man had jammed with Gene on Prestige previously.

featuring
Idrees Suliman
Pepper Adams
Mal Waldron
Arthur Taylor
Doug Watkins
Ray Barretto

Blue Gene
Scamperin'
Blue Greens 'N Beans
Hip Tip

This title is not eligible for further discount.

The relationship between Dizzy Gillespie and Ray Brown goes back to the mid 1940s when Brown was the bassist in Gillespie's magnificent big band. Joe Pass and Mickey Rocker came along somewhat later. When he heard them, Dizzy understood immediately that they were worthy of admission into the inner circle of musicians whose artistic life was centered in the bebop tradition that he and Charlie Parker had established. The core of that tradition is perfectly expressed in this blistering version of Be Bop, a piece Dizzy wrote in 1942 that still tests musicians' ability to express themselves at high velocity. Gillespie's tender side and harmonic wisdom are disclosed in Hurry Home and September Song, his blues expressiveness in his classic Birks Works. Pass solos beautifully and rounds out a stunning rhythm section.

Track Listings

1. Tanga
2. Hurry Home
3. Russian Lullaby
4. Be Bop (Dizzy's Fingers)
5. Birks Works
6. September Song
7. Jitterbug Waltz

This title is not eligible for further discount.

Quiet Kenny is yet another reminder of what a trumpet giant Kenny Dorham was. Whether limning ballads such as “My Ideal,” “Alone Together,” “I Had the Craziest Dream” and “Old Folks,” or investigating the timelessness and intricacies of the blues (his originals in this set with “Blue” in their titles), the former Charlie Parker cohort and ex-Jazz Messenger exhibits his subtle swing, personal sound, and finely-honed harmonic sense. Along the way these reflections and connections with Bird, Coleman Hawkins, Sonny Rollins, Max Roach, Harry James and Louis Armstrong make for a rich legacy.

Track Listing:

Lotus Blossom
My Ideal
blue Friday
Alone Together
Blue Spring Shuffle
I Had The Craziest Dream
Old Folks
Mack the Knife

This title is not eligible for further discount.

This 1961 set of standards, favoring ballads, is Gene Ammons in his prime. For the most part, this session is tight and structured, keeping Ammons firmly locked in the groove more so than on some of his more wandering dates. His big-as-a-house tone stands center stage in front of a sympathetic piano-bass-drums trio of Richard Wyands, Doug Watkins and J.C. Heard, respectively.

Track Listings

1. Till There Was You
2. Answer Me, My Love
3. Willow Weep For Me
4. Little Girl Blue
5. Something I Dreamed Last Night
6. Something Wonderful
7. I Remember You
8. Someone To Watch Over Me

This title is not eligible for further discount.

One of the best efforts from Ammons' extensive catalog. A fat, warm, rich sax tone - you know, the one you immediately identify as Jug - is on display in all its glory on this great Moodsville release.

"Feeling tired and stressed out? Give Uncle Gene a spin. Besides perfect pitch, Ammons' other special gift was a melodic sense that allowed him to effectively convey feelings at slow tempos. Here is a great jazz ballad player given full scope to spin his charms." - Dick Olsher, Stereophile, February 1995

Track Listings:

1. Two Different Worlds
2. But Beautiful
3. Skylark
4. Three Little Words
5. Street Of Dreams
6. You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To
7. Under A Blanket Of Blue
8. I'm Glad There Is You

This title is not eligible for further discount.