Jackson, Milt
Milt Jackson With John Lewis, Percy Heath, Kenny Clarke, Lou Donaldson And The Thelonious Monk Quintet
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

1983 Japan pressing without Obi. Features John Lewis, Lou Donaldson, Sahib Shihab, Thelonious Monk, Shadow Wilson And Others. "The origianl 1955 Blue Note release highlights vibraphonist Milt Jackson’s versatility within two dazzling session lineups. Side A features Jackson alongside pianist John Lewis, bassist Percy Heath, and drummer Kenny Clarke from the Modern Jazz Quartet, joined by alto saxophonist Lou Donaldson. Their interplay produces a relaxed, blues-infused atmosphere, with Jackson’s lyrical phrasing front and center. Side B shifts dramatically as Jackson partners with the legendary Thelonious Monk Quintet, including Monk on piano, Heath on bass, Clarke on drums, and trumpeter Kenny Dorham. Here, the group explores Monk’s angular compositions with crisp precision, marrying Jackson’s warm vibraphone tones with Monk’s unmistakably idiosyncratic touch. The album is noted for its high-fidelity mono sound and historic lineup, making it a must-hear for jazz enthusiasts as a showcase for Jackson’s artistry and as a document of influential post-bop collaborations.