Wynton Kelly Kelly Blue: Fantasy 45 Series

Wynton Kelly Kelly Blue on 180g 45RPM 2LP from Analogue Productions: Part of the Fantasy 45 Series, Mastered by Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman at Acoustech Mastering from the Original Master Tape, Pressed at QRP

For Wynton Kelly, Kelly Blue marked a career highlight. A blueprint for blues-infused hard bop, Kelly Blue is Kelly's definitive statement as a bandleader — a swinging, blues-soaked masterclass in touch, taste, and timing. This is the sound of a pianist playing with both finesse and fire.

The Pitch 

Kelly was the pianist Miles Davis trusted enough to bring into his band and replace Red Garland. Kelly was the ultimate sideman turned understated hero — blending gospel fire, blues grit, and bebop elegance into a buttery-smooth flow that made his touch unmistakable. On Kelly Blue, he steps out of the shadow and into the spotlight, where he glows like a well-polished Steinway under stage lights.

And Kelly brought friends on this auspicious date. Paul Chambers (bass) — So solid, they used him to calibrate metronomes. Jimmy Cobb (drums) — Subtle as a whisper, sharp as a whip. And Nat Adderley (cornet), Benny Golson (tenor sax), and Bobby Jaspar (flute) — Because sometimes, you need a horn section that sounds like they're reciting poetry in perfect harmony. These cats don't just support Kelly — they elevate him.

What's Inside?

"Kelly Blue" — The blues never felt this fresh. This is the sound of a pianist playing with both finesse and fire.
"Softly, As in a Morning Sunrise" — A standard, yes. But Kelly makes it his.
"Keep It Moving" — Exactly what this band does, with grooves slick enough to hydroplane on.

Ballads and burners alike — Every track is a reminder that Kelly could do anything at the keys — except be boring. Kelly Blue is the sound of a pianist at the peak of his power, surrounded by friends who know exactly how to keep up. 

This reissue is mastered by Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman at Acoustech Mastering, cut at 45RPM, pressed on 180-gram vinyl at Quality Record Pressings, and housed in a Stoughton Printing tip-on gatefold jacket with scuff-resistant matte finish.

Features:

• 180g Vinyl
• 45RPM
• 2LP
• Mastering by Kevin Gray & Steve Hoffman at Acoustech Mastering
• Pressed at Quality Record Pressings
• Stoughton Printing Tip-On Gatefold Jacket with Scuff-Resistant Matte Finish