A Nice Pair: Sonny Rollins

Today’s book and vinyl pairing is the same-named Saxophone Colossus – one, a biography of Sonny Rollins by Aidan Levy; the other, Rollins’ album.

The book is a deep dive into the life of one of jazz’s greatest saxophonists, Sonny Rollins. Its nearly 800 pages are packed with insights from over 200 interviews with Rollins himself, his family, friends, and fellow musicians, along with material from his personal archives.

Levy takes us through Rollins’ incredible 65-year career, highlighting his groundbreaking contributions to jazz. From his early days in Harlem to his legendary performances and recordings, the biography paints a vivid picture of Rollins’ journey. It also delves into his personal struggles and triumphs, giving readers a well-rounded view of the man behind the music.

The album, Saxophone Colossus, is one of Sonny Rollins’ most celebrated albums. Released in 1956, it’s often considered his breakthrough record and was recorded in a single session on June 22, 1956. The album features five tracks, including the famous St. Thomas, which is inspired by a Caribbean folk song. This track, along with others like Moritat and Blue 7, showcases Rollins’ incredible improvisational skills and his ability to blend different musical influences. The version we currently have in stock is pressed on blue vinyl.