Somethin' Else - Cannonball Adderley
description Somethin' Else - Cannonball Adderley Overview
Somethin' Else is a quintessential Blue Note session that features Cannonball Adderley at his best, supported by a dream team including Miles Davis. The album is a perfect example of the hard bop style, blending soulful melodies with sophisticated improvisation. The title track and the rendition of 'Autumn Leaves' are legendary, showcasing the incredible interplay between Adderley's alto sax and Davis's trumpet. It is a smooth, polished, and deeply satisfying record that captures the essence of the late 50s jazz sound, making it a must-have for any serious jazz enthusiast.
info Somethin' Else - Cannonball Adderley Specifications
| Genre | Hard Bop Jazz |
| Label | Blue Note Records |
| Personnel | Cannonball Adderley, Miles Davis, Hank Jones, Sam Jones, Art Blakey |
| Track Count | 5 |
| Audio Format | LP, CD, Digital Download |
| Release Year | 1958 |
| Total Duration | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Mastering Engineer | Rudy Van Gelder |
| Recording Location | Rudy Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, NJ |
balance Somethin' Else - Cannonball Adderley Pros & Cons
- Features a stellar lineup including Cannonball Adderley and Miles Davis, creating a synergistic musical experience.
- Represents a quintessential example of the hard bop genre, showcasing its defining characteristics of soulful melodies and complex improvisation.
- The title track, 'Somethin' Else,' is a widely recognized and influential jazz standard.
- Demonstrates Cannonball Adderley's exceptional alto saxophone playing, highlighting his improvisational skills and tone.
- The album's recording quality is superb, preserving the nuances of the musicians' performances.
- Offers a compelling blend of accessible melodies and sophisticated harmonic structures, appealing to both casual listeners and jazz aficionados.
- Some listeners may find the hard bop style occasionally dense or complex, requiring repeated listens to fully appreciate.
- While Miles Davis's contributions are significant, his role is relatively limited compared to Adderley's.
- The album's relatively short length (around 30 minutes) might leave some listeners wanting more.
- Original pressings can be expensive and difficult to find, potentially limiting accessibility for some collectors.
- While influential, the album's sound may feel dated to listeners accustomed to more contemporary jazz styles.
help Somethin' Else - Cannonball Adderley FAQ
What is Miles Davis's role on this album?
Miles Davis plays a supporting role, primarily contributing trumpet and arranging. While his presence elevates the album, Cannonball Adderley is the primary soloist and driving force behind the music.
What genre does 'Somethin' Else' belong to?
This album is a cornerstone of the hard bop genre, a subgenre of jazz that combines elements of bebop with blues, gospel, and rhythm and blues. It's known for its energetic rhythms and soulful melodies.
Is this a rare or valuable album?
Original pressings of 'Somethin' Else' are considered valuable and sought after by collectors, particularly those in excellent condition. Reissues are readily available at more accessible price points.
Who produced the album?
The album was produced by Alfred Lion, a key figure at Blue Note Records, known for his discerning ear and commitment to quality jazz recordings.
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What is Somethin' Else - Cannonball Adderley best for?
This album is ideal for jazz enthusiasts, students of music, and anyone seeking a classic example of hard bop with exceptional musicianship and a timeless feel.
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What are the key specifications of Somethin' Else - Cannonball Adderley?
- Genre: Hard Bop Jazz
- Label: Blue Note Records
- Personnel: Cannonball Adderley, Miles Davis, Hank Jones, Sam Jones, Art Blakey
- Track Count: 5
- Audio Format: LP, CD, Digital Download
- Release Year: 1958
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