Sonny Rollins teams up with Thelonious Monk on this compilation of select tracks from three recording sessions in the early 50s. A rotating rhythm section keeps the tunes fresh. Monk’s signature harmonic eccentricity accents Rollins’ huge tenor sound perfectly and this disk shows what can happen between two masterful improvisers.

Grade: A.

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The Dave Brubeck Quartet play a beautiful set of songs, comprised mostly of standards, from the early 50s, a mellow laid-back collection. Brubeck anchors the ensemble on piano and Paul Desmond’s introspective alto saxophone playing lends a lightness to the music that is unique in the history of jazz.

Grade: B+.

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Miles Davis leads his all-star quintet, which includes John Coltrane and Red Garland, in this terrific set of four familiar tracks. The ensemble is tight and the musicians have remarkable chemistry. This sublime album has a relaxed groove and the solo work is excellent, deliciously melodic, and explores modal jazz.

Grade: A.

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Sonny Rollins thrown the gauntlet with a legendary set of five tunes that lives up to its title. He is in peak form, playing three original tunes and a pair of standards. His rhythm section — including the incomparable Max Roach, Tommy Flanagan, and Doug Watkins — complements Sonny’s astonishing solo work.

Grade: A++.

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This beautiful live set of solo tunes displays Thelonious Monk at his finest, unaccompanied on piano in Paris. Information about this new release is pretty difficult to find, but the music is top shelf. All of the tunes except the opener are Monk’s original compositions, making this obscure album enjoyable.

Grade: A-.

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McCoy Tyner is in fine form on this live set of mostly original compositions. Mislabeled as The Real McCoy, the 1987 recording featured here is always enjoyable, from the opening latin tune to the last note, including unforgettable standards like You Taught My Heart to Sing and What’s New?.

Grade: B+.

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This ISA-nominated Japanese film is the story of a solitary guy who falls for a woman who likes expensive clothes. After she dies unexpectedly, he hires a similarly-looking girl and tries to deal with the loss of his wife. This lyrical little gem is slow-paced and quiet.

Grade: B.

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A huge collection of selections from John Coltrane’s European tours from the early sixties, this seven disk treasure chest puts Coltrane alongside some brilliant sidemen — Eric Dolphy, McCoy Tyner, Elvin Jones, and Jimmy Garrison. Multiple takes of favorite tunes are here, as well as innumerable fantastic solos from complete virtuosos.

Grade: A++.

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Miles Davis fronts a nineteen-piece orchestra in this astonishing collection of songs, featuring Davis himself as the only soloist. His wistful, mellow, stunning sound complements the large horn accompaniment perfectly. This groundbreaking album belongs in the collection of any serious music fan, even those who are new to jazz.

Grade: A+.

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Dexter Gordon joins forces with Bud Powell, Kenny Clarke, and Pierre Michelot during their years as ex-patriates in Paris. Dexter’s huge iconic sound fills up this amazing disk from start to finish. Powell’s piano complements Long Tall Dexter perfectly. Great solo work on familiar standards permeates this beautiful work.

Grade: A+.

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