Sonny Rollins - Alfie LP (Original Music From The Score) (Verve Acoustic Sounds Series, 180 Gram Vinyl)

Alfie was released in 1966 as the soundtrack to the British film of the same name. This six-cut date was arranged and conducted by Oliver Nelson, featuring a mix of musicians supporting Rollins including Kenny Burrell (guitar), J.J. Johnson (trombone) and Phil Woods (alto sax), among others. Rollins attempts to capture the textures of life through his incisive and energetic playing, his coherent improvisations and variations on musical themes. While "Alfie's Theme" and it's variants make the most lasting impression, "He's Younger Than You" is touching, laced with regret. And the sensual, relaxed "On Impulse" has a nice sense of immediacy. Verve Acoustic Sounds Series features transfers from analog tapes and remastered 180-gram vinyl in deluxe gatefold packaging.