Night At The Village Vanguard

For anyone that has the original or 1987 vol. 1, vol. 2 CDs: dump them and re-buy this Rudy Van Gelder remaster. It sounds SO much better. Based on aural evidence the 1987 CDs and I believe the original LPs suffered from the addition of post-production chamber or plate reverb that has quite a long decay. It sounds really bad and is overused especially on Sonny. The Van Gelder remaster does not have this reverb and sounds just like it would have in the club to me. Primarily dry but you can hear the room as well. Also, to me the balance of the tenor to the rhythm section has been improved on this remaster as well. The original CD’s had the rhythm section further back in the mix. Almost like they were an afterthought. I found that to be very distracting and it kept me from enjoying these recordings until this remaster.This recording is by no means high fidelity due to the limitations and choices at the time of the recording. There is a significant amount of tape and/or inline compression and distortion most noticeable on the cymbals but this is just something you will get past as you enjoy this trio.So be warned, this recording will never be an audiophile experience. But that isn’t why you would buy this anyway.See other reviews for in depth thoughts on the music but this is Sonny in 1957--free flowing, stream of conscious, inspired melodicism over standards. Wilber Ware is also a joy to hear on this. Tenor trio jazz over changes really doesn’t get much more inspired or hardcore than this. Astounding and recommended. Get this remaster!

There have been many famous recordings done at this famous club in NYC, but this is the most memorable alongside the Bill Evans Trio in '61. But this was the first and perhaps the best of Sonny Rollins' live trio recordings. One could say "Way Out West" as another fine example of Sonny's freer approach to improvisation but there's no contest when he is caught live without the inhibiting environment of a studio. I've worn out both Volumes One & Two so this 2 CD set is a "blessing in disguise" (to use one of Sonny's future titles). Elvin has never sounded more rawer and spontaneous and Ware is just about the most perfect bassist Sonny has ever had not discounting Bob Cranshaw or Ray Brown. If you want an introduction to his music, you can start here!! Either "Sonnymoon for Two" or "Ole Devil Moon" can set you off.

I had the record but wore it out. Am so glad to have a CD so I can listen to this great group again at recorded at the Vanguard, greatest jazz club in the world

Sax, bass, drums and they mix it up wonderfully. This is the first recording at the Village Vanguard. If you love jazz this is a must have.

Outstanding from 1957. Songs don't exist like that.

Well done.

Vanguard stuff

Sunny Sonny, a clear message from the heart.

The Village Vanguard sets by The Sonny Rollins Trio, recorded before an enthusiastic audience are essential "Must Haves" for anyone who takes jazz seriously.

excellent product and seller !!!!!

everything I hoped for,over the moon with all the tracks on it recommend it to any Sonny Rollins fan great

Came on time, great CD.

fuine