Pure Pleasure SD 1375

John Lewis: The Wonderful World Of Jazz

Article-No.: pp1375

Format: 1LP 180g 33rpm / standard sleeve

Release date: 06.12.2016

Manufacturer: Pure Pleasure

Original label: Atlantic

Genre: Jazz

There is nothing hurried about this disc. That said, the music is focused and will stretch your mind. Lewis employed masterful melodic improvisers here: Paul Gonsalves, Eric Dolphy, Jim Hall among others. Listen to "Body And Soul" as it builds powerfully and the soloists explore every possible melodic theme, where the quiet power of these master musicians is almost too much to take. Listen to "I Remember Clifford" where the players are essentially the MJQ with Jim Hall replacing Milt Jackson. This set swings, but oh-so-elegantly. Just like Mr. Lewis.

S.C.Berry

Whether you're an old-time jazz afficionado or new to the genre, this album is essential. In my opinion, Lewis' lovely solo on "Body & Soul" makes his version virtually definitive - 15 minutes of bliss. The rest of the album, particularly "Afternoon In Paris", is at the same level. "Wonderful" is the perfect title for this record.

E Barrios

Recording: July and September 1960

Production: Nesuhi Ertegun & Tom Dowd