Sonny Rollins - Alfie (1966/2019) [Hi-Res]

Tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins loaned his flair for the dramatic to the score for the film Alfie, accompanying the story of what the liner notes describe as "the involuntary education of a hipster." Arranged by Oliver Nelson, the soundtrack follows the character's evolution from the carefree, rakish Lothario of "Alfie's Theme" to the contemplative, somewhat broken man reflected in "Alfie's Theme Differently." Rollins attempts to capture the textures of life through his incisive and energetic playing, his coherent improvisations, and variations on musical themes. While "Alfie's Theme" and its variants make the most lasting impression, "He's Younger Than You Are" is touching, laced with regret. And the sensual, relaxed "On Impulse" has a nice sense of immediacy.

"Tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins loaned his flair for the dramatic to the score for the film Alfie, accompanying the story of what the liner notes describe as "the involuntary education of a hipster." Arranged by Oliver Nelson, the soundtrack follows the character's evolution from the carefree, rakish Lothario of "Alfie's Theme" to the contemplative, somewhat broken man reflected in "Alfie's Theme Differently." Rollins attempts to capture the textures of life through his incisive and energetic playing, his coherent improvisations, and variations on musical themes. While "Alfie's Theme" and its variants make the most lasting impression, "He's Younger Than You Are" is touching, laced with regret. And the sensual, relaxed "On Impulse" has a nice sense of immediacy." (AMG)

Oliver Nelson, conductor
Sonny Rollins, tenor saxophone
J.J. Johnson, trombone (tracks 1 & 2)
Jimmy Cleveland, trombone (tracks 3-6)
Phil Woods, alto saxophone
Bob Ashton, tenor saxophone
Danny Bank, baritone saxophone
Roger Kellaway, piano
Kenny Burrell, guitar
Walter Booker, bass
Frankie Dunlop, drums

Recorded January 26, 1966 at Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, NJ
Produced by Bob Thiele

Digitally remastered