Cannonball Adderley – Somethin' Else (CD)

When Julian Edwin Adderley entered the New York jazz scene in 1955, he caused a sensation with a soulful alto saxophone style that had critics reaching for superlatives. They made direct comparisons with Charlie Parker, who died that year. But the aptly nicknamed "Cannonball" was really something special. With his amazing technique, sheer mastery of the instrument and passionate playing feel, Adderley took 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 considered a classic. Their styles are clearly different, as you can hear right from the start on the wonderfully relaxed Autumn Leaves. Miles sets the tempo and mood, his muted trumpet exploring the theme with a delicacy that is nothing short of magical. 'Follow this' 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's not long before his pent-up energy is released in a swirl of notes in the first of many extended solos. In a group full of giants on their respective instruments, it's fascinating to hear them restraining their self-confidence (in other words, their egos) for the common goal of making perfect music together.

Includes extra FRANCIS WOLFF photographs and 1 bonus track

When Julian Edwin Adderley entered the New York jazz scene in 1955, he caused a sensation with a soulful alto saxophone style that had critics reaching for superlatives. They made direct comparisons with Charlie Parker, who died that year. But the aptly nicknamed "Cannonball" was really something special. With his amazing technique, sheer mastery of the instrument and passionate playing feel, Adderley took 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 considered a classic. Their styles are clearly different, as you can hear right from the start on the wonderfully relaxed Autumn Leaves. Miles sets the tempo and mood, his muted trumpet exploring the theme with a delicacy that is nothing short of magical. 'Follow this' 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's not long before his pent-up energy is released in a swirl of notes in the first of many extended solos. In a group full of giants on their respective instruments, it's fascinating to hear them restraining their self-confidence (in other words, their egos) for the common goal of making perfect music together.

Includes extra FRANCIS WOLFF photographs and 1 bonus track

Track list