Elvin!

Elvin Jones (1927-2004) showed an interest in drums at a young age, watching the circus bands march by his family’s home in Pontiac, Michigan. He moved to New York in 1955 and worked as a sideman for Charles Mingus, Teddy Charles, Bud Powell, and Miles Davis. From 1960 to 1966 he was a member of the John Coltrane quartet (along with Jimmy Garrison on bass and McCoy Tyner on piano), where he recorded such celebrated albums as A Love Supreme. During this period he also recorded albums as a leader, such as Elvin! (Riverside Records RLP-9409), presented here. His brothers, pianist Hank Jones, and trumpeter Thad Jones, both heard here, were also celebrated, jazz musicians. The complete quartet LP Keepin’ Up With the Joneses (MetroJazz SE-003), showcasing all three brothers along with bassist Eddie Jones (no relation), has been added as a bonus.