This seven-CD box set lives up to its title, reissuing in chronological order all of tenor saxophonist
Sonny Rollins' recordings for Prestige. Dating mostly from 1951-1956, these valuable performances find
Rollins developing from a promising player to a potential giant; many of his best recordings would take place a year or two after this program ends. In addition to his own sessions,
Rollins is featured with trombonist
J.J. Johnson, on four dates with
Miles Davis, and on sessions led by
Thelonious Monk and trumpeter
Art Farmer. Among the other musicians participating are trumpeters
Kenny Dorham and
Clifford Brown; pianists
John Lewis,
Kenny Drew,
Horace Silver,
Elmo Hope,
Ray Bryant,
Red Garland, and
Tommy Flanagan; drummers
Max Roach,
Roy Haynes,
Art Blakey, and
Philly Joe Jones;
the Modern Jazz Quartet;
Julius Watkins on French horn; altoist
Jackie McLean; and even
Charlie Parker. Among the many highlights are the original versions of
Rollins' compositions "Airegin," "Oleo," "Doxy," "St. Thomas," and "Blue 7," and his one recorded meeting with
John Coltrane ("Tenor Madness"). Essential music that is treated as it should be. The attractive booklet is a major plus too. ~ Scott Yanow