Sonny Rollins / NY, USA 11.01.1979 FM Broadcast Edition

This definitive recording features a clear, noise-free new recording of a live performance at Binghamton University in New York State, from the world tour following the release of the 1979 masterpiece “Don’t Ask” on the Milestone label. In the 1970s, Sonny Rollins released solid albums every year. Following “Easy Living” in 1977 and “Don’t Stop the Carnival” in 1978, came “Don’t Ask.” With Larry Coryell, who participated in the album, absent, this is a quartet performance where you can fully appreciate Rollins’ tenor saxophone in a one-horn quartet. While Rollins’ tenor saxophone was said to be more fusion-oriented in the studio, in live performances it is undeniably free-spirited and powerful, creating an exciting atmosphere. In particular, the tenor saxophone-only intro to the first track, “Harlem Boy,” can be heard without any problems. The only downside is that “Don’t Stop the Carnival” is faded out due to broadcast time constraints. Even with that in mind, I think this album is well worth listening to. Live at Binghamton University, Vestal, New York 11/01/1979 1. Harlem Boys 2. Don’t Ask 3. Band Introductions 4. Little Lu 5. Easy Living 6. Sais 7. Announcement By Sonny Rollins 8. Don’t Stop The Carnival (inc) Sonny Rollins (ts) Mark Soskin (p) Jerome Harris (b) Al Foster (dr)