Sonny Rollins / Osaka, Japan – January 11, 1985

This is a rare live recording from Osaka, capturing a spectacular performance by Sonny Rollins—then at the absolute peak of his artistic maturity—during his mid-1980s tour of Japan. Documenting the concert held on January 11, 1985, at the Osaka Kosei Nenkin Kaikan Hall, this release fully conveys the electrifying energy of the Rollins band during a highly productive era. The backing band is in top form; their powerful grooves and fluid interplay constantly spur Rollins on, maintaining a palpable sense of tension throughout even the longest performances. It is a true live music thrill to hear Rollins’s creativity being drawn out in real-time as he responds to the enthusiastic Japanese audience. Bobby Hutcherson’s swinging vibraphone work is particularly impressive. This title comes highly recommended for jazz fans eager to experience the true essence of Rollins’s improvisational artistry. Please note: there is a slight pitch fluctuation for about two seconds at the beginning of “No Problem.” Live At Osaka Kosei Nenkin Kaikan Hall, Osaka, Japan January 11th, 1985 Disc 1 1. Tell Me You Love Me 2. No Problem 3. My One And Only Love 4. McGhee Disc 2 1. Introduction 2. Wynton 3. I’ll See You Again 4. Don’t Stop The Carnival 5. Reel Life (inc) Sonny Rollins (ts) Clifford Anderson (trom) Bobby Hutcherson (vibs) Mark Soskin (p) Jerome Harris (b) Tomme Campbell (dr)