"Way Out West" is a highly acclaimed jazz album by the iconic American saxophonist Sonny Rollins. Here are some interesting facts about this album:
Conceptual Inspiration: The album's title, "Way Out West," reflects Sonny Rollins' fascination with the American West and the idea of going "out there" to make music. It is not necessarily a reference to a specific geographical location but more of a thematic concept.
Iconic Album Cover: The album's cover art is instantly recognizable and has become an iconic image in jazz history. It features Rollins in Western attire, complete with a cowboy hat, standing in the middle of a desolate desert landscape. The cover was shot by renowned photographer William Claxton.
Unconventional Trio Format: "Way Out West" is notable for its unconventional trio format, consisting of Sonny Rollins on tenor saxophone, Ray Brown on double bass, and Shelly Manne on drums. This minimalist lineup allowed Rollins to explore his musical ideas with more space and freedom.
Recording Session in a Los Angeles Studio: The album was recorded on March 7, 1957, at the Contemporary Records studio in Los Angeles. The choice of location was partly due to Rollins' desire to record in California and his admiration for the West.
Pioneering the Use of Tuba: In addition to the standard jazz trio instruments, the album also features the tuba played by Ray Brown on the track "I'm an Old Cowhand." This was a pioneering move, as the tuba was not a common instrument in jazz at the time.
Innovative Song Selection: "Way Out West" features a mix of jazz standards and popular songs from the American Songbook. For example, the album opens with a unique rendition of the classic "I'm an Old Cowhand" by Johnny Mercer, giving it a fresh jazz interpretation.
Sonny Rollins' Pioneering Style: Sonny Rollins' playing on "Way Out West" showcases his innovative and influential tenor saxophone style. He is known for his powerful and expressive improvisations, and this album is a prime example of his musical prowess.
Critical Acclaim: "Way Out West" received critical acclaim upon its release and is often considered one of Rollins' masterpieces. It is often cited as a classic example of the cool jazz subgenre.
Legacy and Influence: The album has had a lasting impact on the jazz world and has influenced numerous musicians and saxophonists. Its enduring popularity attests to its timeless appeal.
Vinyl Collector's Gem: Original pressings of "Way Out West" on vinyl have become highly sought after by collectors and can be quite valuable due to the combination of its historical significance and musical excellence.
"Way Out West" remains an essential album in Sonny Rollins' discography and a significant contribution to the world of jazz, known for its unique concept, innovative instrumentation, and timeless music.