Sonny Rollins - Alfie - SHM CD

Japanese Import

One of Rollins' great albums. Essential.

Tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins loaned his flair for the dramatic to the score for the film Alfie (starring Michael Caine), 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.