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Joni Mitchell

Live At The BBC, 1970

Ermitage

Joni Mitchell turns 80: Ermitage celebrates the nine times Grammy winner with the release of this vinyl album featuring the artist performing live on the BBC in 1970

Star singer- songwriter of Canadian music and author of songs such as "Big Yellow Taxi", "River" and "A Case of You".

For all the fans around the world always eager for the releases of the great singer- songwriter and particularly since a few months ago she returned to the stage after the brain aneurysm that struck her in 2015 and left her unable to speak or walk let alone play the guitar.

TRACK LISTING

1. Chelsea Morning
2. The Gallery
3. Cactus Tree
4. My Old Man
5. For Free
6. Woodstock
7. All I Want
8. California
9. Big Yellow Taxi
10. Both Sides, Now

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Thelonious Monk

Brilliant Corners - 2025 Reissue

Ermitage

Coloured LP

£17.99

Yellow vinyl edition.

Cat Number

VNL22709

Release date

21 Feb '25

Format Info

Yellow vinyl edition.

Brilliant Corners is an exceptional example of Monk's distinctive approach to jazz, which was characterized by angular melodies, unusual chord progressions, complex rhythms, and an idiosyncratic sense of timing.

The title track, "Brilliant Corners," for example, was so intricate that it took multiple takes to complete, and the musicians found it challenging to follow its unconventional structure. This difficulty speaks to Monk's originality and his pushing the boundaries of what jazz could be at the time. The LP is one of Thelonious Monk's most acclaimed and influential albums, recorded in 1956 and released in 1957. It stands as a cornerstone in Monk's discography, showcasing his innovative approach to jazz composition and performance, and is often regarded as one of his finest works. Upon its release, Brilliant Corners was met with widespread critical acclaim and remains a significant album in jazz history and helped solidify Monk's status as one of the great innovators of modern jazz. It was a breakthrough album for Monk commercially as well, attracting attention from jazz critics and listeners who were beginning to appreciate his genius more widely. Today, Brilliant Corners is considered an essential jazz record, often cited as one of the greatest jazz albums of all time: musicians like Ornette Coleman, Cecil Taylor, and Eric Dolphy were influenced by Monk's ability to push the boundaries of jazz without losing its essence. The album is not just a masterwork in Thelonious Monk's discography but a pivotal moment in the evolution of modern jazz.

TRACK LISTING

Brilliant Corners
Ba-Lue Bolivar Ba-Lues-Are
Pannonica
I Surrender, Dear
Bemsha Swing

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Thelonious Monk & Sonny Rollins

Ermitage

Coloured LP

£17.99
Usually ships within: 2-10 days

Yellow vinyl edition.

Cat Number

VNL22714

Release date

21 Feb '25

Format Info

Yellow vinyl edition.

Released in 1956 this album is a compilation of recordings from different sessions held between 1953 and 1954.

Thelonious Monk and Sonny Rollins were both giants of jazz, each known for their individual approaches. Monk, with his unorthodox approach to rhythm and harmony, was one of jazz's most original composers and pianists. Rollins, one of the greatest saxophonists in jazz history, was known for his inventive and bold improvisations. Thelonious Monk was still establishing his reputation during this time. Though considered a genius by some, Monk's highly original style, marked by dissonant harmonies, abrupt rhythmic shifts, and a percussive attack on the piano, was still divisive among critics and audiences in the early '50s. It wasn't until later in the decade, when he started working with Columbia Records and gained wider recognition, that he achieved broader commercial success. Sonny Rollins, though younger, was already a notable figure in the jazz scene by this point, having played with Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, and Bud Powell. He was known for his inventive and bold improvisational style. In these recordings, Rollins was solidifying his status as one of the major voices on tenor saxophone.

The album shows both musicians in their prime, experimenting with harmonies and extended forms. Even though the sessions were recorded at different times, there is a strong synergy between them, particularly in how Monk's percussive piano style complements Rollins' flowing saxophone. A record that captures a moment in jazz history, a testament to the artistic brilliance of both musicians and a significant piece of jazz history, blending the freewheeling spirit of jam sessions with complex, forwardthinking compositions.

TRACK LISTING

The Way You Look Tonight
I Want To Be Happy
Work
Nutty
Friday The 13th

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Charles Mingus

Blues & Roots

Ermitage

Coloured LP

£17.99
Usually ships within: 2-10 days

Yellow vinyl edition.

Cat Number

VNL22708

Release date

21 Feb '25

Format Info

Yellow vinyl edition.

Blues & Roots is not only a cornerstone in Charles Mingus' body of work but also a testament to the enduring power of the blues as a foundation for jazz.

Mingus managed to both honor tradition and push the boundaries of jazz, all while making a deeply personal and politically charged musical statement. The album remains one of the most vital and influential recordings in the history of jazz music. Released in 1960 this album stands out in Mingus' discography as a raw, vibrant homage to the roots of blues and gospel traditions in jazz. Mingus sought to return to his musical roots, drawing from blues and gospel traditions he grew up with, particularly from the African American church music of his youth. The album is a powerful statement of how deeply the blues tradition influenced modern jazz. It combines the unfiltered emotional intensity of the blues with Mingus' forward-thinking and often unconventional compositional techniques. The album's tracks are imbued with a strong sense of the blues, which is especially apparent in songs like "Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting" and "Moanin'." The album carries a loose, jamsession feel, reflecting the church and street-based roots of blues music. The use of call- and- response patterns in several tracks also hints at gospel traditions. Blues & Roots is often cited as a critical album in the development of jazz as a genre that embraced both its past and future. Mingus' ability to integrate traditional musical forms (such as blues and gospel) with more modern, experimental elements opened up new possibilities for jazz. His compositional style, which juxtaposed tightly arranged sections with freewheeling solos, influenced generations of musicians, from avant-garde jazz artists to rock musicians and composers in other genres

TRACK LISTING

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting
Cryin' Blues
Moanin'
Tensions
My Jelly Roll Soul
E's Flat Ah's Flat Too

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Freddie Hubbard

Open Sesame - 2025 Reissue

Ermitage

Coloured LP

£17.99
Usually ships within: 2-10 days

Yellow vinyl edition.

Cat Number

VNL22712

Release date

21 Feb '25

Format Info

Yellow vinyl edition.

Hubbard was only 22 years old when he recorded the album, yet it showcases his prodigious talent and hints at the remarkable career he would go on to have.

The album has become a classic in the hard bop genre, combining elements of bebop and blues with advanced harmonies and improvisational flair and features a stellar lineup of musicians, many of whom were already influential figures in the jazz world or would go on to become so Freddie Hubbard, Tina Brooks, McCoy Tyner, Sam Jones, Clifford Jarvis. "Open Sesame" is rooted in hard bop, a jazz style characterized by a mix of bebop's fast tempo and complex improvisations with blues, gospel, and R&B influences. Hubbard's trumpet playing is both aggressive and lyrical, marked by his technical precision and emotive phrasing. His performance is complemented by Tina Brooks' soulful tenor saxophone and McCoy Tyner's distinctive piano comping, which adds a rich harmonic layer. The album's compositions range from the upbeat and fiery title track "Open Sesame", to the lush ballad "But Beautiful", and the bluesy groove of "One Mint Julep". The track "Gypsy Blue", written by Tina Brooks, is a highlight with its sophisticated chord changes and melodic inventiveness. Open Sesame received critical acclaim upon release and established Hubbard as one of the premier trumpet players of his generation. It's considered a cornerstone of Hubbard's career and a significant recording helped launch Hubbard into a long and successful career where he would collaborate with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Art Blakey, Herbie Hancock, and Wayne Shorter and remains an essential listen for anyone exploring Freddie Hubbard's discography.

TRACK LISTING

Open Sesame
But Beautiful
Gypsy Blue
All Or Nothing At All
One Mint Julep
Hub's Nub

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Dexter Gordon

Our Man In Paris

Ermitage

Coloured LP

£17.99
Usually ships within: 2-10 days

Yellow vinyl edition.

Cat Number

VNL22713

Release date

21 Feb '25

Format Info

Yellow vinyl edition.

In 1962, Gordon relocated to Paris, where he became part of a vibrant jazz community.

He was already a well-established figure in the jazz world due to his groundbreaking work in the 1940s and 1950s. His decision to live in Europe revitalized his career, allowing him to continue evolving as a musician away from the struggles in the USA: he enjoyed enormous respect in Europe, which allowed him to perform freely, often in clubs and on tours, without the burdens of American racism. Paris had long been a haven for jazz musicians: artists like Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and John Coltrane were celebrated in Europe, and the French jazz scene, in particular, became a hotspot for both American expatriates and European musicians. Dexter Gordon quickly became one of the leading figures in that scene. Our Man in Paris is a celebrated jazz album and it is widely regarded as one of Gordon's best works. It is considered one of Gordon's finest albums due to its blend of bebop virtuosity, lyrical improvisation, and the tight interplay between world-class musicians: a classic jazz record, beloved for its authenticity and the inspired performances of Dexter Gordon and his ensemble. This album is now considered a classic in the jazz canon that's not only a remarkable album because of its flawless execution and historical significance, but it also captures a pivotal moment in jazz history where American jazz musicians were embracing new experiences and sounds in Europe and captures the essence of Gordon's bebop roots while showcasing the influence of his time in Europe.

TRACK LISTING

Scrapple From The Apple
Willow Weep For Me
Broadway
Stairway To The Stars
A Night In Tunisia

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Quincy Jones

Big Band Bossa Nova - 2025 Reissue

Ermitage

Upon its release, Big Band Bossa Nova by the renowned American music producer, conductor, arranger, and composer Quincy Jones, released in 1962 received favorable reviews from critics, who praised its innovative arrangements and the seamless integration of bossa nova into big band jazz

It was noted for its lively and fresh sound, appealing to both jazz enthusiasts and fans of Latin music. Over the years, the album has been recognized as a classic in the realms of both jazz and Latin music. It continues to influence musicians who seek to explore the fusion of different genres. The album played a crucial role in popularizing bossa nova in the United States, introducing many listeners to Brazilian music. It paved the way for future collaborations and crossover projects between jazz and Latin music. It is often cited by contemporary artists and arrangers who are inspired by its innovative blend of styles. Its influence can be seen in various genres, including jazz, pop, and world music and is a testament to Jones's ability to adapt and innovate throughout his career. It solidified his status as a pioneer in the music industry, influencing countless artists across genres and generations. Big Band Bossa Nova not only captures the essence of its time but also continues to resonate with audiences today, highlighting the enduring appeal of both big band features contributions from several talented musicians.

TRACK LISTING

Soul Bossa Nova
Boogie Bossa Nova
Desafinado
Black Orpheus (Manha De Carnaval)
Se E Tarde Me Pardoa (Forgive Me If I'm Late)
On The Street Where You Live
Samba De Uma Nota So (One Note Samba)
Lalo Bossa Nova / Serenata
Chega De Saudade (No More Blues)

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The Horace Silver Quintet

The Tokyo Blues - 2025 Reissue

Ermitage

The Tokyo Blues is an album that reflects Horace Silver's deep musicality, cultural curiosity, and love for the blues.

Its combination of relaxed grooves, melodic beauty, and hints of Eastern influence make it a unique and memorable work within Silver's extensive catalog. It's a perfect example of how jazz can both explore new territories and remain grounded in its own traditions, showcasing Silver's versatility as both a pianist and a composer. Released in 1962 it is considered a gem within Horace Silver's prolific career and offers an intriguing combination of Horace Silver's unique jazz language with the subtle influence of his experiences in Japan, producing a warm, thoughtful, and musically rich album. Horace Silver's The Tokyo Blues is the result of his quintet's tour of Japan in 1961, which left a strong impression on him. While on tour, Silver was struck by the culture, atmosphere, and aesthetics of Japan, which he sought to translate into the musical language he was deeply rooted in hard bop. The album, however, doesn't feature overt Japanese musical scales or instrumentation, but rather evokes a mood and a sense of place. Silver's approach was more about integrating his impressions of Japan, its serenity, beauty, and mood of reflection, into the compositions. He did this within the framework of the jazz tradition, creating music that remains unmistakably his own. His quintet was already known for its catchy themes, complex rhythms, and inventive solos, and The Tokyo Blues adds a layer of atmospheric and emotional depth to that established style. In the early 1960s, Horace Silver was at the height of his creative powers. His work was instrumental in shaping the hard bop movement, a style that emphasized blues, gospel, and soul influences over the more intricate, intellectual sounds of bebop. The Tokyo Blues stands as an example of Silver's ability to evolve his sound while staying true to the groove-based essence of hard bop.

TRACK LISTING

Too Much Sake
Sayanora Blues
The Tokyo Blues
Cherry Blossom
Ah! So

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Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers

A Night In Tunisia - 2024 Reissue

Ermitage

On the jazz standard "A Night in Tunisia" composed by Dizzy Gillespie in 1942, Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, realised this album with a legendary ensemble the lineup includes Lee Morgan on trumpet, Wayne Shorter on tenor saxophone, Bobby Timmons on piano, and Jymie Merritt on bass.

Recorded on August 7 and 14, 1960 this album is one of the most celebrated for the powerful solos and intricate arrangements, epitomizing the hard bop style. Blakey's versions of "A Night in Tunisia" are renowned for their intense energy and complexity, the piece itself features a distinctive Afro- Cuban rhythm in the introduction and the main theme, transitioning into straight-ahead swing for the improvisational sections. In summary, Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers' renditions of "A Night in Tunisia" are celebrated for their dynamic interpretation, technical proficiency, and influential impact on the jazz genre.

Their recordings are a testament to the enduring legacy of both Blakey and Gillespie in the world of jazz. His band, the Jazz Messengers, served as a springboard for many future jazz stars.

TRACK LISTING

A Night In Tunisia
Sincerely Diana
So Tired
Yama
Kozo's Waltz

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Stan Getz And Jaoa Gilberto

Getz / Gilberto - 2024 Reissue

Ermitage

Getz / Gilberto is considered one of the most influential and beloved jazz albums of all time, and its impact extends far beyond its initial release: it was a commercial and critical success, winning the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1965, as well as earning Grammys for Best Jazz Instrumental Album, Individual or Group, and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical.

It played a significant role in popularizing bossa nova music outside of Brazil and influencing musicians around the world. Arguably the most famous track from the album, "The Girl from Ipanema" (Garota de Ipanema) features the vocals of Joao Gilberto and Astrud Gilberto, who sings the English verses and which became an international hit and a timeless jazz standard. The song became an international sensation, reaching the top of the charts in the United States and winning the Grammy Award for ecord of the Year in 1965.

In addition to its critical acclaim, "Getz/ Gilberto" was a commercial success. It reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States and remained on the chart for over 96 weeks. Its success helped introduce bossa nova to a global audience and contributed to the worldwide popularity of Brazilian music.

TRACK LISTING

The Girl From Ipanema
Doralice
P'ra Machucar Meu Coracao
Desafinado
Corcovado
So Danco Samba
O Grande Amor
Vivo Sohando

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Thelonious Monk Quartet

Misterioso - 2024 Reissue

Ermitage

Thelonious Monk's album "Misterioso" is a live recording capturing the essence of Monk's dynamic performances and innovative jazz style.

Released in 1958, the album was recorded at the Five Spot Cafe in New York City, a venue renowned for its intimate atmosphere and its role in the jazz scene of the 1950s. "Misterioso" is notable for its raw, live energy and the seamless interplay between the quartet members. Johnny Griffin's tenor saxophone work is particularly striking, adding a robust and fluid counterpoint to Monk's percussive piano playing. Griffin's solos on tracks like "Nutty" and "Blues Five Spot" showcase his virtuosic technique and ability to complement Monk's unconventional style. The rhythm section, with Ahmed Abdul-Malik on bass and Roy Haynes on drums, provides a solid yet flexible foundation, allowing Monk and Griffin the freedom to explore and interact creatively. Haynes' drumming, in particular, is a highlight, known for its crispness and inventive rhythms that propel the music forward.

The album has been praised for its innovative approach to jazz composition and performance, influencing countless musicians and listeners: it remains a testament to Monk's ability to push the boundaries of jazz while staying deeply rooted in its traditions.

TRACK LISTING

Nutty
Blues Five Spot
Let’s Cool One
In Walked Bud
Just A Gigolo
Misterioso

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Charlie Mingus

The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady - 2024 Reissue

Ermitage

Coloured LP

£14.99
Usually ships within: 2-10 days

Yellow Coloured Vinyl.

Cat Number

VNL22658

Release date

2 Feb '24

Format Info

Yellow Coloured Vinyl.

Recording made on January 20, 1963 in New York with personal and socially relevant content entitled "The Black Saint and The Sinner Lady".

All the songs on the session, from the initial "Solo Dancer" to the "Group and Solo Dance" which closes the album, express Mingus's philosophy of life and his opinions on love and the world.

This release is part of the New Ermitage collection available from January 2024: 18 jazz and soul titles reissued on yellow vinyl with new codes and renewed graphics.

TRACK LISTING

1. Solo Dancer (Stop! Look! And Listen, Sinner Jim Whitney!)
2. Duet Solo Dancers (Heart's Beat And Shades In Physical Embraces)
3. Group Dancers (Soul Fusion) Freewoman And Oh, This Freedom's Slave Cries)
4. Trio And Group Dancers (Stop! Look! And Sing Songs Of Revolutions!)
5. Single Solos And Group Dance (Saint And Sinner Join In Merriment On Battle Front)
6. Group And Solo Dance (Of Love, Pain, And Passioned Revolt, Then Farewell, My Beloved, 'Til It's
Freedom Day)

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