Nat King Cole - After Midnight: The Complete Sessions (Tone Poet Series) - 2LP (LP)

Nat King Cole’s jazz vocal masterpiece gets a definitive presentation with After Midnight: The Complete Sessions, an expanded 2-LP set comprising the full recordings that the legendary singer and pianist made over four sessions at Capitol Studios in August-September 1956 with his trio of John Collins on guitar, Charlie Harris on bass, and Lee Young on drums plus featured guest soloists Willie Smith on alto saxophone, Harry “Sweets” Edison on trumpet, Stuff Smith on violin, and Juan Tizol on trombone, as well as Jack Costanza on percussion. The album managed to assimilate several elements of Cole’s unique genius into a single sublime statement showcasing his suave vocals and exquisite pianism while channeling the elegant swing of his beloved Trio into a loose, relaxed jam session with several leading lights of the jazz world. The accompanying booklet features an enlightening in-depth essay by esteemed journalist and Cole expert Will Friedwald along with rare archival photos.

This mono Tone Poet Vinyl Edition was produced by Joe Harley, mastered by Kevin Gray from the original analog master tapes, pressed on 180 gr vinyl at RTI, and packaged in a deluxe tip-on gatefold jacket including a booklet with archival photos and an essay by Will Friedwald.

Tracklist:
A1. Just You, Just Me
A2. Sweet Lorraine
A3. Sometimes I’m Happy
A4. Caravan
A5. It’s Only A Paper Moon
B1. You’re Looking At Me
B2. Lonely One
B3. Don’t Let It Go To Your Head
B4. I Know That You Know
B5. Blame It On My Youth

C1. When I Grow Too Old To Dream
C2. (Get Your Kicks On) Route 66
C3. I Was A Little Too Lonely
C4. You Can Depend On Me
D1. What Is There To Say
D2. Two Loves Have I
D3. Candy
D4. You’re Looking At Me (alt take).

50s jazz