Nat Adderley - The Classic Albums Collection: 1955-1962 (2018)

Nat began the 1960s with one of most acclaimed albums, Work Song (Riverside, 1960). Adderley himself was praised for the lyricism of his playing, while his famous title track would go on to become a pop classic too. Cannonball returned to the fold on That's Right! (Riverside, 1960), an album which saw Nat's cornet curiously fronting the Big Sax Section. Naturally! (Jazzland, 1961) found Adderley leading a different quartet on each side of the record. In The Bag (Jazzland, 1962) once again featured Cannonball and Sam Jones alongside tenor saxophonist Nat Perrilliat, Ellis Marsalis on piano and James N. Black on drums. For the remainder of his life, Nat Adderley maintained a busy schedule of recording sessions and live performances, often alongside his brother. He appeared on more than 100 albums overall, and in 1975 Nat and Cannonball composed the musical 'Shout Up A Morning', based on the story of folk hero John Henry. After the sudden death of Cannonball Adderley later that year, Nat's career was put on hiatus, but he returned to playing in 1976, and thereafter toured internationally with various groups. Nat Adderley died on 2nd January 2000; he left behind an extraordinary musical legacy, albeit one that has rarely achieved the recognition it deserves. This four CD collection brings together eight original Nat Adderley albums from the great musician's golden years. Showcasing perfectly Nat's innovative and versatile style, this lovingly remastered set serves as a timely reminder of this jazz legend's finest work.