Roland Alexander
Pleasure Bent
New Jazz (US) 19xx
NJLP-8267 (LP)
sleeve : EX+(slightly wear on corner.)
media : EX-/EX-(A2 and B3 has one light hairline that does not affect to sounds.)
American saxophonist Roland Alexander, who began his career in the early 60s playing with groups led by Shelly Manne and Charles Persip, and who leaned towards free jazz in the 70s, participated in renowned sessions such as Jazz Composer’s Orchestra, Archie Shepp’s 'Attica Blues', and Dollar Brand’s 'African Space Program'. He also left behind masterpieces as a leader, such as 'Live at The Axis' in collaboration with Kalaparusha. His first leader album was released by New Jazz in 1962. It features a quintet with Marcus Belgrave (tp), Ronnie Mathews (p), Gene Taylor (b), and Clarence “Scoby” Stroman (ds). The album showcases excellent performances with a relaxed atmosphere, such as the laid-back, soulful blues on A1 and the pleasant, light rhythm and soft horn ensemble on B1. While a hard bop era work, it also highlights Alexander's distinctive phrasing in key moments. This is likely a reissue produced by Fantasy in the late 80s.
A1: Pleasue Bent
B1: Lil’s Blues