The Modern Jazz Quartet Fontessa (180g Mono Import Vinyl LP)

Remastered Using Pure Analogue Components Only from the Master Tapes Through to the Cutting Head

The Modern Jazz Quartet was a major jazz institution. From the start, their sound and style was in place. Mixing together the influences of Bach and Charlie Parker, with pianist John Lewis' basic blues playing reminiscent of Count Basie and Milt Jackson adding a great deal of soul to the music, the MJQ was always a unique group. The majority of the group's existence was spent recording for the Atlantic label where they were one of the most successful jazz acts of the '50s and '60s.

In contrast to some of the other rather more laid-back MJQ LPs, 1956's Fontessa, their first for Atlantic, offers diversified and intense music with the group bridging the gap between blues, bebop and Western classical music to fine effect. Nothing is routine here, perhaps because drummer Connie Kay had replaced Kenny Clark just one year prior, but maybe too because Milt Jackson's blues influence inspired John Lewis to let loose like never before. All seven numbers are true gems (however "Bluesology" steals the show) which Rolling Stone confirmed when it gave the album a five-star rating.

This Speakers Corner 180g vinyl reissue was remastered using pure analogue components only, from the master tapes through to the cutting head.

Musicians:
John Lewis (piano)
Milt Jackson (vibraphone)
Percy Heath (bass)
Connie Kay (drums)