The Cannonball Adderley Quintet: The Cannonball Adderley Quintet in San Francisco

Reissued as part of Concord's Keepnews Collection, this classic Riverside album has stood the test of time. Brothers Julian "Cannonball Adderley and Nat Adderley had a terrific quintet going when they hit San Francisco in 1959 for a four-week run at The Jazz Workshop. They had soul, they had rhythm, and they had blues. This is straight-ahead jazz the way we like to remember it. Cannonball Adderley expressed it best, as he spoke to his audiences about the feelings deep down inside, and how it affected their music.

The original album, along with its cover art and original liner notes, is reissued through 24-bit re-mastering from the original master tapes. Several bonus features are provided: one later issue and two previously unissued tracks from the same sessions, along with new liner notes by Keepnews, the original producer.

The five original selections, all extended performances at these live concerts, demonstrate well the true characteristics of Adderley's quintet. His alto purred long and cool with a comfortable texture that grows on you like the glow of a permanent love affair. Nat's cornet toasted the room with an honorable salute to melodic beauty combined with articulate taste. The vulnerability in his tone has left unforgettable memories. Sam Jones walked the bass in support as drummer Louis Hayes colored with syncopated raps, while pianist Bobby Timmons shone with his characteristic sparkle.

With its blazing-fast, pick-me-up tempo and powerful demeanor, "You Got It! stands out as one of those underappreciated spots in jazz history. Coupled with the four more familiar numbers, the piece has always made this original album essential.

The bonus track "Straight, No Chaser would have been on the original album. Perhaps album length was an issue. It was issued later, however, and remains integral to the total body of work by this quintet. Alternate takes of "This Here and "You Got It! provide the same kind of worth as those selected for the album. They're slightly different, and it's a joy to sit, listen, and find those differences. Anyway, jazz isn't meant to be played the same way twice. Cannonball Adderley and his crew made sure of that.