Roland Kirk

Despite the title, this is not Roland Kirk’s earliest session as a leader, that being the 1956 release TRIPLE THREAT. However, this classic 1960 session, originally released on Chess’s jazz label Argo, was the first that most heard of the gifted multi-instrumentalist.

At the time often dismissed as a novelty for reviving the old vaudeville trick of playing up to three reeds at once, Kirk quickly silenced his critics with his impressive soloing on this record, making it patently obvious that the only answer to the question “How does he play three saxes at once?” was “Extremely well.” Undeniably modern in his tone and playing style, Kirk also exhibits an impressive knowledge of jazz roots and history, covering the standard “Our Love Is Here to Stay” with stylish elan and sanctifying the gospel-tinged “Soul Station.

PERSONNEL:

• Rahsaan Roland Kirk - (tenor saxophone)
• Ira Sullivan - (tenor saxophone, trumpet)
• William Burton - (piano, organ)
• Don Garrett - (bass)
• Sonny Brown - (drums)

TRACKS:

• SIDE A
• A1. The Call
• A2. Soul Station
• A3. Our Waltz

• SIDE B
• B1. Our Love Is Here To Stay
• B2. Spirit Girl
• B3. Jack The Ripper