Sonny Rollins Vol. 3: 6 Classic Albums (1962)

"Rollins will go down in history as not only the single most enduring tenor saxophonist of the bebop and hard bop era, but also as one of the greatest contemporary jazz saxophonists. His fluid and harmonically innovative ideas, effortless manner, and easily identifiable and accessible sound have influenced generations of performers, but have also fueled the notion that jazz music can be widely enjoyed and proliferated." (Michael G. Nastos, Allmusic) Deze 4CD-set bevat 6 albums uit de periode 1953-1962. De set opent met Rolllins' debuut als leider, "Sonny Rollins With The Modern Jazz Quartet", uit 1953 (níet 1956, zoals de hoes vermeldt). "There is a playful and energetic tone that ricochets from Jackson's fluid vibes, landing firmly in Rollins' musical court." schrijft Allmusic. Op "A Night At The Village Vanguard" horen we het trio waarmee hij in die tijd veel live speelde, met Wilbur Ware (b) en de latere John Coltrane-drummer Elvin Jones. De set besluit met een iets later album: "Our Man In Jazz" uit 1962.