Sonny Rollins – Tenor Madness (Black Vinyl)

Released in 1956, Tenor Madness is a cornerstone of jazz history, showcasing Sonny Rollins’ prowess as a tenor saxophonist and a visionary bandleader. The album is especially notable for its title track, the only recorded collaboration between Rollins and John Coltrane, resulting in an electrifying saxophone duel that has become legendary. Recorded with the esteemed Miles Davis rhythm section—Red Garland (piano), Paul Chambers (bass), and Philly Joe Jones (drums)—the album features an impeccable blend of improvisation and swing.

Other standout tracks include “My Reverie,” highlighting Rollins’ lyrical expressiveness, and “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World,” which showcases his inventive phrasing. Rollins’ ability to combine technical brilliance with emotional depth solidifies Tenor Madness as a must-hear record, offering a snapshot of 1950s jazz at its finest, while marking a pivotal moment in Rollins’ rise as one of the genre’s greatest saxophonists.

Tracklist: