Bud Powell: The Scene Changes Vinyl LP

Love everything I’ve ever heard from the late Bud Powell. This 1959 Blue Note album is no exception. This was his final release for the label and is one of the label’s most desirable on the secondhand market (og copies fetch anywhere from $150 all the way up to $2000, depending on pressing and condition). The much lauded “Cleopatra’s Dream” begins things in the most spirited way: Bud playing possessed and the band gutturally humming along. A true magical moment in the Blue Note catalog. The rest of the 9 track selection maintains the upbeat, mostly uptempo vibe. Fans of sparkling piano-led jazz, look no further.

• official 2015 reissue, 1st US pressing since original release
• music label: Blue Note 1959 / 2015

reviewed by the mgmnt 07/2015