Cannonball Adderley: Somethin' Else (Limited Edition) (140 g) (LP)

One of the most famous recording sessions in the history of modern jazz—the chemistry between Adderley, Miles Davis, Hank Jones, Sam Jones, and Art Blakey is astonishing. Their radical reworkings of “Autumn Leaves” and “Love For Sale” are masterpieces. Miles’s theme song and Nat Adderley’s “One For Daddy-O” are classics. When Julian Edwin Adderley entered the New York jazz scene in 1955, he caused a sensation with an emotive alto saxophone style that prompted critics to resort to superlatives. Immediate comparisons were drawn to Charlie Parker, who had passed away that same year. But his apt nickname, “Cannonball,” was truly something special. With his astonishing technique, his sheer mastery of the instrument, and his passionate approach to playing, Adderley elevated modern jazz to an even higher level. It’s fascinating to hear the young newcomer alongside Miles Davis—the undisputed “King of Cool”—on an album that has long been regarded as a classic. Their styles differ markedly, as is evident right from the start on the wonderfully relaxed “Autumn Leaves.” Miles sets the tempo and mood; his muted trumpet explores the theme with a tenderness that is nothing short of magical. “Follow me” seems to be the message to his partner at the studio microphone—and Adderley takes up the challenge with a restrained, respectful response. However, it doesn’t take long before his pent-up energy unleashes itself in a whirlwind of notes during the first of many extended solos. In a group full of giants on their respective instruments, it’s fascinating to hear how they set aside their self-confidence (in other words: their egos) to work together to achieve the common goal of making perfect music. “Is that what you wanted, Alfred?” —Miles Davis’s unmistakable voice at the end of “One for Daddy-O” makes it clear that the legendary trumpeter was far more than just a sideman on “Somethin’ Else,” Cannonball Adderley’s only Blue Note album. The musical bond between Davis and his bandmate at the time shapes the entire session—from the breathtaking version of “Autumn Leaves” to the rousing title track. Featuring Hank Jones (piano), Sam Jones (bass), and Art Blakey (drums), this album has become a timeless jazz classic. BLUE NOTE ESSENTIALS—the label’s classic LPs, now available for the first time at an unbeatable price, without compromising on flawless production. 140g optimal pressing from a hi-res master, single sleeve.