Sonny Rollins – Way Out West (6 songs, 1957)


About This Music Release

Way Out West is a 6-song music release by Sonny Rollins (tenor saxophone), with Ray Brown on bass and Shelly Manne on drums. It was released in 1957 by Contemporary Records (original catalog C3530).

Sonny Rollins (1929–), the legendary "Saxophone Colossus," is one of jazz's greatest tenor saxophonists, known for his melodic invention, rhythmic sophistication, and thematic improvisation. This landmark album—his first piano-less trio recording and his debut for Contemporary—was cut in a single overnight session starting at 3 a.m. on March 7, 1957, in Los Angeles (Rollins' first West Coast trip).

The playful Western theme (cowboy covers like "I'm an Old Cowhand" and the iconic William Claxton cover photo of Rollins in desert gear, sax as "gun") showcases his humor and creativity, while standards highlight his commanding tone and swing. Critics hail it as a timeless hard bop masterpiece—relaxed yet intense, establishing Rollins as the top tenor player of the era.

Tracklist

  1. I'm An Old Cowhand (5:35)
  2. Solitude (7:47)
  3. Come, Gone (7:47)
  4. Wagon Wheels (10:08)
  5. There Is No Greater Love (5:13)
  6. Way Out West (6:28)

(Later reissues often add alternate takes, expanding to 9 tracks.)

Firmly in the jazz genre with hard bop styles, it's essential listening—recommended alongside Saxophone Colossus or The Bridge for its freedom, wit, and pure trio interplay.

Check out the full details, versions (including deluxe reissues), and community notes on Discogs via your link. A desert-cool jazz classic! 🌵🎷

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