Art Blakey et les Jazz Messengers – Au Club St. Germain, Vol. 2 (1959 Victor Japan Vinyl LP)

Released in 1959 on Victor Records Japan (RA 5119), this mono Ortophonic recording captures Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers live at Club St. Germain in Paris — one of the most electrifying live sessions in hard bop history. Recorded during the group’s celebrated 1958 European tour, the album finds the band in inspired form, translating the raw energy of their American club sound to a captivated Parisian audience.

The lineup is stellar: Lee Morgan on trumpet, Benny Golson on tenor saxophone, Bobby Timmons on piano, Jimmy Merritt on bass, and Blakey driving the ensemble with volcanic intensity behind the kit. The set features powerful performances of Mornin’ with Hazel (titled Moanin’ with Hazel on the cover), We Named It Justice, Blue March for Europe No. 1, and Out of the Past — each balancing soulful swing, blistering solos, and the group’s trademark collective fire.

Pressed in Japan shortly after the original French release, this 1959 Victor edition offers rich mono sound and period-accurate artwork, with the characteristic black-and-silver label noting the alternate “Mornin’ with Hazel” spelling. A rare and beautifully made pressing of one of Blakey’s finest live documents — hard bop at its most vital and inspired.

Vinyl: EX
Sleeve: VG+
Obi: None

Our grading system explained here.

Photo is of the actual item.