From Music Matters impressive 45rpm Reissue Series, one of the best Blue Note titles and memorable J.R. Monterose session recorded by Rudy Van Gelder. Audiophile mastering from Original Analog Master Tapes by Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman at AcousTech on 2LP 45rpm 180 gram vinyl pressed at RTI and presented in a luxurious gatefold cover with stunning high resolution session photos.

• Limited Edition
• Numbered Edition
• Only 1000 numbered Units available Worldwide
• Remastered from the Original Rudy Van Gelder Blue Note Master Tapes
• Remastered by Kevin Gray & Steve Hoffman at AcousTech
• Double LP Cut at 45rpm for ultimate dynamics
• 180 Gram Virgin Vinyl pressed at RTI USA
• Ultra-Durable Extra Thick Album Covers
• Gatefold Cover with Session Photos in stunning High Resolution

J.R. Monterose had what it took be one of the giants of the tenor-sax. His sound was inspired by Sonny Rollins and Coleman Hawkins, he played with consistent intensity, and he prospered musically during an association with Charles Mingus. While he did not become a major name, his Blue Note debut in 1956 shows that he was one of the greats.

Joined by Horace Silver and Ira Sullivan, Monterose's playing is full of surprises, advanced ideas and his own approach to playing hard bop. There was no warming up period for Monterose for he was already in prime form, challenging his sidemen and expressing himself in his own voice. Although he was active into the 1980s this, his first album as a leader, is J.R. Monterose's finest recording and a brilliant set just waiting to be discovered.

Like all Music Matters Jazz releases, this audiophile vinyl reissue is mastered from the original analog tape and pressed on 180g virgin vinyl at RTI in Camarillo, CA. The highest quality gatefold cover features original session photography on the inside.

Musicians:

Ira Sullivan, trumpet
J.R. Monterose, tenor sax
Horace Silver, piano
Wilbur Ware, bass
"Philly" Joe Jones, drums

Track Listing:

1. Wee-Jay
2. The Third
3. Bobbie Pin
4. Marc V
5. Ka-Link
6. Beauteous

Click here to listen to samples on YouTube.com ♫