Elvin Jones And Richard Davis - Heavy Sounds (1976 Japanese Impulse! Gatefold LP)

Vinyl: EX
Sleeve: EX
Obi: None

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Elvin Jones And Richard Davis - Heavy Sounds Vinyl LP - 1976 Japanese ABC Impulse! Stereo Gatefold Reissue

Drummer Elvin Jones and bassist Richard Davis co-lead this 1967 session exploring the boundary between soul-jazz and post-bop, their rhythmic partnership driving six tracks recorded over two days (19 and 20 June) in New York. Tenor saxophonist Frank Foster and pianist Billy Greene appear on four tracks, while Jones and Davis perform two duets including an extended reading of "Summertime". Originally released in 1967 as A-9160, this session captures Jones between his legendary work with the John Coltrane Quartet (which had recently dissolved) and his own long-running group. Released in Japan in 1976 as part of Impulse's Best Collection series and manufactured by Nippon Columbia, this gatefold stereo pressing showcases the rhythmic mastery of two of jazz's most powerful rhythm section players.

The quartet tracks feature Foster's robust tenor saxophone and Greene's bluesy piano over the formidable foundation of Jones and Davis, whose interaction demonstrates telepathic rhythmic understanding. Jones' drumming, famous for its polyrhythmic complexity and explosive power in the Coltrane context, here shows equal mastery of soul-jazz grooves and swinging post-bop. Davis' bass work provides both harmonic grounding and melodic invention, his instrument functioning as equal voice rather than mere timekeeper. The Count Basie classic "Shiny Stockings" receives modern treatment, while originals like "Raunchy Rita" and "M.E." showcase the group's ability to balance groove with sophisticated improvisation.

The two duets reveal the core Jones-Davis partnership stripped to essentials. "Summertime" becomes a vehicle for extended exploration, the familiar Gershwin theme serving as launching point for bass-drums dialogue that demonstrates how rhythm section players can sustain interest without harmonic instruments. "Elvin's Guitar Blues" (despite the title, no guitar appears) further showcases their rhythmic rapport. Manufactured by Nippon Columbia in gatefold format as part of the Impulse Best Collection series, this pressing captures Jones and Davis at a transitional moment, bridging Coltrane-era intensity with soul-jazz accessibility.