Having first appeared on a Blue Note session as a member of Bud Powell’s Modernists in 1949, Sonny Rollins returned to the label in 1956 to record a series of four tremendous leader dates in less than a year.
Recorded in April 1957, the saxophonist’s 2nd album for Alfred Lion, Vol. 2, found him in esteemed company with J.J. Johnsonon trombone, Horace Silveron piano, Paul Chamberson bass, and Art Blakey on drums for a high-spirited bop date.
The 6-song set opens with two rollicking Rollins originals (“Why Don’t I?” and “Wail March”) and closes with interpretations of two popular songs (“You Stepped Out Of A Dream” and “Poor Butterfly”). For the album’s two centerpieces, pianist Thelonious Monk joins the festivities for memorable versions of his compositions “Misterioso” and “Reflections.”
Track Listing
Side A
1. Why Don't I
2. Wail March
3. Misterioso
Side B
1. Reflections
2. You Stepped Out Of A Dream
3. Poor Butterfly
