“A Story Tale” is an album by Clifford Jordan and Sonny Red, recorded on February 14, 1961, at Bell Sound Studios, New York, and originally released on Jazzland Records (JLP 940S). The Jazz Workshop Vinyl reissue as a 180-gram audiophile LP (JW-075) revives this record with remastering that emphasizes the horns’ clarity. The lineup features Clifford Jordan (tenor saxophone), Sonny Red (alto saxophone), Tommy Flanagan (piano), Art Davis (bass), and Elvin Jones (drums). The album includes originals like You’re Driving Me Crazy and Cumberland Court, plus standards. The music is hard bop with a focus on saxophone interplay, with Jordan and Red crafting a harmonious yet contrasting dialogue. The Jazz Workshop reissue is valued for its detailed sound. A Story Tale is a vibrant record, showcasing the talent of two saxophonists and their hard-bop contribution.
Clifford Jordan (September 2, 1931 – March 27, 1993) was an American tenor saxophonist known for his warm tone and lyrical playing. Born in Chicago, he began his career in the 1950s, working with Max Roach and Horace Silver. Sonny Red (December 17, 1932 – March 20, 1981), born Sylvester Kyner, was an alto saxophonist from Detroit whose tart style complemented hard-bop ensembles. Both were active on the New York scene, often collaborating with leaders like Charles Mingus and Art Blakey. Their 1961 collaboration highlights the contrast between Jordan’s melodic tenor and Red’s sharp alto, creating unique chemistry.
TRACKLIST
Side One:
1. Cumberland Court (Clifford Jordan) 3:49
2. A Story Tale (Clifford Jordan) 4:48
3. You’re Driving Me Crazy (Walter Donaldson) 5:38
4. Defiance (Sonny Red) 3:24
Side Two:
1. Prints (Sonny Red) 6:00
2. Hip Pockets (Red-Jordan) 5:00
3. They Say It’s Wonderful (Irving Berlin) 5:13
4. If I Didn’t Care (Jack Lawrence) 5:14
Personnel:
Clifford Jordan & Sonny Red Quintet
Sonny Red (alto sax), Clifford Jordan (ttenor sax), Tommy Flanagan (piano on Side A #3, 4 and Side B #1, 2, 3), Ronnie Mathews (piano on Side A #1, 2 and Side B #4), Art Davis (bass), Elvin Jones (drums).
Recorded at Bell Sound Studios, New York City, February 14, 1961
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