It is an understatement to say that Miles Davis did not record as a sideman for just anyone. In fact, the number of times after 1950 that the trumpeter agreed to uplift another musician’s record can be counted on one hand, but Cannonball Adderley was not just “another musician.” Considered a sensation when he debuted in New York in 1955, Adderley’s brilliant technique and creative ideas were matched by his jubilant sound which was always full of joy and excitement. After leading a very enjoyable and commercially successful quintet during 1955-57, Adderley became a member of the Miles Davis Sextet, playing next to John Coltrane. Cannonball would have phenomenal success with his own quintet in 1959 but he was already one of the greatest jazz musicians when he recorded his lone Blue Note album, Somethin’ Else in 1958. Joined by the Hank Jones Trio, this was the lone album that Adderley and Davis ever made together as the only horns. Among the five performances are very memorable renditions of “Love For Sale” and “One For Daddy-O.” The hoint is what could be considered the finest jazz recording ever of “Autumn Leaves.” Davis’ melancholy tone proved to be the perfect contrast to Adderley’s joyful and exuberant playing which is overflowing with both creative ideas and pure enthusiasm. The classic music on Somethin’ Else is sophisticated and earthy, melodic yet full of constant creativity. This is a true gem.

While Music Matters wanted to use the original 33rpm format to honor the 75 years since Blue Note was founded in 1939, they did not want to sacrifice sonically, because only the very best sound can fully reveal the exquisite subtleties contained in this music. Consequently, over this past year they have worked tirelessly with Kevin Gray at Cohearant Audio Mastering to refine the mastering process. Nothing was spared to make these the definitive 33RPM Blue Note reissues. With an additional $75,000 worth of studio upgrades, featuring all WEL Signature AudioQuest cable and an all new Class A front end, the results will become apparent when you listen to these exceptional recordings. These studio upgrades have reached a point where Music Matters are confident that the 33 rpm format will not only honor the originals, but also fully and accurately present the sonic wonders contained on these master tapes. 2014 marks the 75th Anniversary Celebration of Blue Note records, here, handpicked are what Music Matters believe are 12 of the finest offerings on the label, all from the original master tapes! These recordings are offered at 33RPM just as they were originally manufactured by the label!