Ahmad Jamal - The Complete 1961 Alhambra Performances

2CD set plus 12 bonus tracks, includes a comprehensive 12-page booklet with updated liner-notes.

This release compiles all known 1961 performances by the celebrated Ahmad Jamal Trio with Israel Crosby and Vernel Fournier at the pianist's own club, the Alhambra in Chicago. The Alhambra performances were originally issued on two LPs, Ahmad Jamal's Alhambra (Argo LPS-685), and All of You (Argo LPS-691). Four extra tunes from the engagement that were not issued on the original LPs have been added as a bonus, along with two complete rarely heard sessions by the same trio recorded during the same period.

This historic set by the original Ahmad Jamal Trio captures some classic live performances. Jamal owned the Alhambra Club and, of course, his own trio with bassist Israel Crosby and drummer Vernel Fournier was the house band. This is the group that so dazzled Miles Davis with its use of space and lyricism. Sound is warm, spacious, and full, and the entire proceeding is beautifully assembled. - Thom Jurek, All Music