In 1958
Sonny Rollins split an LP between two very different settings. On four selections he is backed by a big band arranged by
Ernie Wilkins (
Rollins's appearances with big bands have been quite rare through the years) including
Gershwin's "Who Cares?" The flip side showcases the great tenor in a trio with bassist
Henry Grimes and drummer
Charles Wright including "Manhattan," one of the very few jazz versions of "If You Were the Only Girl in the World" and a brilliant unaccompanied performance of a song often associated with his idol
Coleman Hawkins, "Body and Soul."
Rollins excels in both of these settings, making this an easily recommended set. ~ Scott Yanow