Cannonball Adderley - Somethin' Else _1958_
A quarter century ago, when I was just undertaking my Jazz excursion, this album came up repeatedly as a classic that should be in everyone's collection. I'll ignore for now that it was then and is often now mislabeled as a Miles Davis album -- this is an Adderley album with Miles as a sideman.
Somehow, I ended up with two copies of the CD. Thanks Columbia House! I listened and was left wondering "WTF is all the fuss?" It wouldn't be overstating things to say I almost hated it. Fast forward to now and I love this. I can't pinpoint exactly where in my personal Jazz excursion I realized how great this is, but it happened. Now, when I hear the opening notes of the opening track, it's like bumping into old dear friends while walking downtown. This is my favorite version of "Autumn Leaves".
Lee Morgan - City Lights _1958_
Hard to believe Lee was just 19 years old when this was recorded. He fits right in with this group of experienced musicians. I can only imagine older bandmates hearing young Lee for the first time and having preconceived notions being washed away by his ability.