Sonny Rollins Quintet/Netherlands 10.11.1981 FM Broadcast Edition

This is a highly sought-after recording from a newly discovered broadcast of a live performance at Rotterdam’s prestigious De Doulen in 1981, when Sonny Rollins was at the peak of his career. During this period, Rollins delivered some of the most energetic performances of his long career, unleashing a powerful tenor saxophone sound and free-flowing improvisations on stage. Incidentally, there are no official releases of Rollins performing with Billy O’Connell or Thomas Palmer. The biggest appeal of this release is undoubtedly the clear and powerful sound quality, characteristic of a soundboard recording. You can enjoy the thick, powerful tone of Rollins’ tenor saxophone as if you were listening up close, fully appreciating his overwhelming presence, from the intricate phrasing to his powerful blowing. 1981 was a very interesting time for Rollins. At “Live Under The Sky” in Tokyo, Rollins collaborated with a powerful lineup including George Duke, Stanley Clarke, and Al Foster, demonstrating just how energetically Rollins was working during this period. Of course, the charm of Rollins heard here is not merely his “boldness.” He uses familiar phrases as material, but develops them in unexpected directions with improvisation, and there is a humor that suggests he is enjoying the performance itself. Please enjoy this performance that is truly “Rollins style” in full force. Live At De Doelen, Rotterdam, The Netherland October 11th, 1981 1. Little Lu (13:29) 2. Illusions (12:09) 3. Joyous Lake (14:09) 4. Dancing In The Dark (6:42) Sonny Rollins (ts) Bill O’Connell (p) Yoshiaki Masuo (g) Thomas Palmer (b) Tommy Campbell (dr)