John Letman - The Many Angles of John Letman (LP)

Dive into the vibrant world of hard bop with John Letman's "The Many Angles of John Letman," a captivating collection of nine tracks that showcase the pianist's mastery and his stellar ensemble. Originally released in 1960 and remastered in 2013, this album is a testament to Letman's skill and the timeless appeal of hard bop. With a runtime of just 34 minutes, it's a concise yet powerful journey through the genre, featuring the legendary Kenny Burrell on guitar, Panama Francis on drums, Peck Morrison on bass, and Dick Wellstood on piano.

"The Many Angles of John Letman" kicks off with the dreamy "Mabel's Dream," setting a smooth tone that contrasts with the upbeat energy of tracks like "This Time The Drink's On Me" and "Say Si Si." The album's standout moments include the sultry "Violets And Violins" and the introspective "Sittin' Alone Countin' My Tears," demonstrating Letman's versatility and depth as a composer and performer. The album's brevity ensures that each track is a gem, making it an excellent introduction to hard bop or a welcome addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. Released on Bethlehem Records, this album is a classic that continues to resonate with fans of the genre.