Cannonball Adderley - Somethin' Else

Recorded on a single afternoon in March 1958, Cannonball Adderley's Somethin' Else represents one of the great masterpieces of jazz—a brief, perfect album that captures the chemistry between some of the greatest improvisers who ever lived, all at the peak of their creative powers. Released in August 1958 on Blue Note Records, this album stands as Adderley's only recording for the legendary label, making it even more precious in the Adderley discography. Yet despite its brevity—just five essential tracks and a running time that barely exceeds 45 minutes—Somethin' Else contains enough musical genius and emotional depth to sustain a lifetime of listening. Jazz commentator Murray Horwitz called the album "near perfect," and few would dispute the assessment.

The album's centerpiece is an extraordinary reading of the standard "Autumn Leaves," a performance so perfectly realized and emotionally assured that it has become the definitive jazz interpretation of the tune. Miles Davis's lyrical trumpet work on this track—singled out for praise by original DownBeat critic Dom Cerulli in his five-star review—reveals the full extent of Davis's gifts as a melodist and balladeer. Adderley's alto saxophone playing throughout the album demonstrates why he was considered one of the finest improvisers of his generation, capable of moving seamlessly from bluesy swing to introspective balladry. The supporting cast—Hank Jones on piano, Sam Jones on bass, and Art Blakey on drums—provides perfect accompaniment, each musician completely attuned to the emotional requirements of every moment.

The recording took place at Rudy Van Gelder's legendary studio in Hackensack, New Jersey, where Van Gelder's engineering acuity captured performances of remarkable clarity and presence. At the time of this recording, Adderley was a member of Davis's Sextet, and the following year he would appear on Davis's epochal Kind of Blue. But Somethin' Else captures Adderley in his finest hour, in command of his instrument and his voice, creating music of unmistakable authenticity and depth. This crystal clear vinyl pressing preserves the warmth and dynamics of the original recording, allowing listeners to experience the subtle interplay between these masters in all its glory.

Features

• Limited 180g Crystal Clear Vinyl LP
• Recorded at Rudy Van Gelder's Studio
• Featuring Miles Davis
• 1958 Jazz Masterpiece
• Blue Note Records Classic

Tracklist

1. Autumn Leaves – 10:58
2. Love for Sale – 7:04
3. Somethin' Else – 8:08
4. One for Daddy-O – 8:23
5. Dancing in the Dark – 4:06

Notes

• Label: Blue Note Records
• Original Release: August 1958
• Recorded: March 9, 1958 at Rudy Van Gelder's Studio, Hackensack, New Jersey
• Artist: Cannonball Adderley featuring Miles Davis
• Musicians: Cannonball Adderley (alto saxophone), Miles Davis (trumpet), Hank Jones (piano), Sam Jones (bass), Art Blakey (drums)
• Format: Limited 180g Crystal Clear Vinyl LP
• Critical Reception: 5-Star DownBeat Review (Original 1958 Review by Dom Cerulli)
• Legacy: One of the definitive jazz recordings of the era