Sonny Rollins - Alfie (Original Music From The Score / 2025 Remaster) (1966) [Hi-Res]

Alfie was released in 1966 as the soundtrack to the British film of the same name. This six-cut date was arranged and conducted by Oliver Nelson, featuring a mix of musicians supporting Rollins including Kenny Burrell (guitar), J.J. Johnson (trombone) and Phil Woods (alto sax), among others. Rollins attempts to capture the textures of life through his incisive and energetic playing, his coherent improvisations and variations on musical themes. While "Alfie's Theme" and its variants make the most lasting impression, "He's Younger Than You" is touching, laced with regret. And the sensual, relaxed "On Impulse" has a nice sense of immediacy.

"Tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins loaned his flair for the dramatic to the score for the film Alfie, accompanying the story of what the liner notes describe as “the involuntary education of a hipster.” Arranged by Oliver Nelson, the soundtrack follows the character’s evolution from the carefree, rakish Lothario of “Alfie’s Theme” to the contemplative, somewhat broken man reflected in “Alfie’s Theme Differently.” Rollins attempts to capture the textures of life through his incisive and energetic playing, his coherent improvisations, and variations on musical themes. While “Alfie’s Theme” and its variants make the most lasting impression, “He’s Younger Than You Are” is touching, laced with regret. And the sensual, relaxed “On Impulse” has a nice sense of immediacy." (AllMusicGuide)

Sonny Rollins, composer, tenor saxophone
JJ Johnson, trombone (tracks 1, 2)
Jimmy Cleveland, trombone (tracks 3-6)
Phil Woods, alto saxophone
Bob Ashton, tenor saxophone
Danny Bank, baritone saxophone
Roger Kellaway, piano
Kenny Burrell, guitar
Walter Booker,bass
Frankie Dunlop, drums
Oliver Nelson, arranger, conductor

Recorded at Twickenham Film Studios
Engineered by Rudy Van Gelder
Produced by Bob Thiele

Digitally remastered by Matthew Lutthans at The Mastering Lab