Volume 2
In 1999, it's easy to look back at this remarkable lineup--Sonny Rollins, Jay Jay Johnson on trombone,Horace SilverandThelonious Monksharing piano duties, bassistPaul Chambers, and drum wizardArt Blakey--and call it an all-star affair. Fact is, it was just as easy to recognize its exceptionality in 1957, when these musicians were all (except for Chambers, who held down a spot inMiles Davis's quintet) respected leaders in their own right. In this case, the collective talent level did not disappoint, instead creating wonderfully alive, assured, and immediate hard bop. The two ebullient Rollins originals and two standards that bookend the record feature Silver on piano; Monk is at the bench on his own ballad "Reflections"; and the now-famous version of Monk's "Misterioso" features both pianists. It's interesting to note how Monk's presence affects the mood and opens the mind of the session--even Silver's solo on "Misterioso" is relatively sparse and pensive when he feels Monk sitting next to him. The leader meanwhile is bursting with confidence, enthusiasm, and bright ideas throughout.--Marc Greilsamer