King Curtis - The New Scene

At first glance, this would appear to be a CD reissue well worth picking up. R&B tenor saxophonist King Curtis is heard in a rare jazz outing, holding his own with cornetist Nat Adderley (in prime form), pianist Wynton Kelly, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Oliver Jackson on four originals and "Willow Weep for Me." But the single-CD Soul Meeting not only contains this entire session, but another related six-song set as well. Only get this particular release if it is found at a budget price. - by Scott Yanow, AMG

When most listeners think of King Curtis, jazz comes to mind. It is instrumental jazz that has strong R&B and even rock 'n' roll sensibilities. Some might even consider what King Curtis played as simply instrumental R&B. Forget about all of that. Set aside the King Curtis that you thought you knew. This is the King playing straight jazz. As one of King Curtis' first albums, this is a serious, straight jazz effort. This 1960 release is a timeless gem. Most of the tunes are originals. With a bop feel, the mood is generally relaxed. The personnel list includes jazz greats like Paul Chambers and Wynton Kelly. Having been recorded by Rudy Van Gelder, the album earns additional street cred as a jazz project. Jazz listeners are likely to instantly fall in love with "The New Scene of King Curtis." Old time Curtis fans will discover a whole new dimension to the King. Get "The New Scene of King Curtis" because it's not everyday that you get to fall in love all over again. - by The Delite Rancher, Amazon.com

Artist: King Curtis
Album: The New Scene of King Curtis
Year: 1960
Label: OJC (1992)
Runtime: 40:22

Tracks:
1.  Da Duh Dah (King Curtis) 5:11
2.  Have You Heard? (King Curtis) 10:23
3.  Willow Weep For Me (Ann Ronell) 5:24
4.  Little Brother Soul (King Curtis) 8:35
5.  In a Funky Groove (King Curtis) 10:48

Personnel:
King Curtis (Tenor Saxophone)
Nat Adderley (Trumpet) - 1,2,4,5
Wynton Kelly (Piano)
Paul Chambers (Double Bass)
Oliver Jackson (Drums)