A few months after moving from America. That’s the time it took a reinvigorated Ben Webster to conquer Cafe Montmarte, a Copenhagen stage, during a marathon performance in January 1965, the standout highlights from which are collected on this exhilarating release. Backed by pianist Kenny Drew and a rhythm section comprised of young European lions, the tenor saxophonist swings and stings through originals and standards, riffing off of bluesy and bop-themed phrases while blowing hard and heavy on uptempo pieces. On slower compositions, Webster turns each note into a mini-symphony, full of distinguished character and preeminent tonality. What a gas.

Originally released by the UK label Black Lion, an imprint that specialized in resurrecting rare gems from US jazz and blues legends, Stormy Weather stands as an unequivocal example of Webster’s dynamic live prowess and a can’t-miss opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to get closer to the man and his music. Orchestrated by ORG Music, this historical reissue is afforded the ultimate in audiophile production standards, resulting in sonics and presentation befitting the museum-like worth of this record’s existence.

Mastered from the original master tapes at Bernie Grundman Studios by Chris Bellman and pressed at Pallas, the 180g LP was curated by legendary engineer Steve Hoffman and eq’d by Grundman himself. A better team you cannot find; every step involved serious quality-control measures to guarantee gorgeous sound. The superb vinyl jacket features exclusive artwork. Indeed, this is what being a collector is all about.

Musicians:
Ben Webster, tenor saxophone
Kenny Drew, piano
Nils Henning Orsted Pederson, bass
Alex Riel, drums