Tantalizing Audiophile Restoration Series Resurrects UK Label Black Lion: Mastered at Bernie Grundman Studios by Chris Bellman and Pressed at Pallas. EQ Notes and Curation Performed by Iconic Engineer Steve Hoffman; LPs EQ’d and Set Up by Bernie Grundman. Conceived, Designed, and Manufactured for Collectors and Enthusiasts: Vinyl Jacket Features Exclusive Art.
Dexter Gordon recorded dozens of albums and played hundreds of live shows, but none better what’s captured on this 1967 date from a club date in Copenhagen. The hard-bop saxophonist blows nothing less than a 28-chorus solo without referencing one standard tune on an epic 12-bar rendition of “Sonnymoon for Two” and, for good measure, sails through an extended, calypso-themed version of Ben Tucker’s “Devilette.” Want sentimentality? No problem. Get lost on “Misty,” on which pianist Kenny Drew and drummer Al Heath add their own signature strokes. What a set!
Originally released by the UK label Black Lion, an imprint that specialized in resurrecting rare gems from US jazz and blues legends, Both Sides of Midnight marks Gordon’s peak live recorded document and a can’t-miss opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to get closer to the man and his music. Helmed by ORG Music, this historical reissue is afforded the ultimate in audiophile production standards, resulting in sonics and presentation befitting the museum-like worth of this record’s existence.
Mastered from the original master tapes at Bernie Grundman Studios by Chris Bellman and pressed at Pallas, the 180g LP was curated by legendary engineer Steve Hoffman and eq’d by Grundman himself. A better team you cannot find; every step involved serious quality-control measures to guarantee gorgeous sound. The superb vinyl jacket features exclusive artwork. Indeed, this is what being a collector is all about. The title may not be as widely known as some of Gordon’s other works, but this reissue preserves vital music that will be enjoyed by generations to come. Consider it a buried treasure that, miraculously, has resurfaced in better condition than that when it was originally made. |