Sonny Rollins - Saxophone Colossus

The complete LP on 180g clear vinyl - this limited edition pressing contains new specially prepared liner notes by Penguin Guide to Jazz's writer Brian Morton and by Paris' prestigious Jazz Magazine.

When Sonny Rollins entered the studio on June 22nd, 1956, to record Saxophone Colossus, one of his most acclaimed albums as a leader, he had already been a regular member of the celebrated Max Roach-Clifford Brown Quintet, which explains the presence here of Max Roach on drums. Aged just twenty-six, Rollins was already a well-known jazz figure but after this LP he became a true star. It includes his first recording of his classic St. Thomas and his unforgettable version of Moritat (Mack the Knife).

I find this entire album excellent on all counts and for all persons concerned. - ***** Ralph J. Gleason, Down Beat

Sonny Rollins recorded many memorable sessions during 1954 1958, but Saxophone Colossus is arguably his finest all-around set. Essential music. - ***** Scott Yanow, AllMusic