Regular readers here will know that Hemiolia Records, based in Italy, has an impressive catalogue of master tapes from which they’re releasing some really excellent quality titles over time. (Otherwise, if you’re new here and this is news to you, you can read my back-stories and reviews at https://thereeltoreelrambler.com/category/hemiolia-records.)
Their latest release is another treat for jazz fans – it’s Saxophone Colossus by the Sonny Rollins Quartet. Recorded in 1956, it’s probably the American jazz saxophonist Rollins’ best-known album – one that was also critically successful and played a key part in securing Rollins’ reputation as a major artist. Completing the quartet alongside Rollins on tenor sax are Tommy Flanagan on piano, Doug Watkins on bass and Max Roach on drums.
The original recording was made by engineer Rudy Van Gelder at his Van Gelder Studio in New Jersey, USA, with Bob Weinstock as producer. It was first released by Prestige Records in Spring 1957.
The master tape copies on offer are Hemiolia’s Stereo Edition remastered by Pietro Benini (in May 2025). The first 20 numbered copies are available to order and are shipping now, priced at €778.69 (2 Reels). At the time of writing it looks like the first 11 have gone…
For more details and to order, head over to www.hemioliarecords.com/en/master-tapes/75-numbered-edition-sonny-rollins-quartet-saxophone-colossus-2-reels-8050616581426.html
Dave Denyer: The Reel-to-Reel Rambler 
