Description

Sonny Rollins – Dancing In The Dark – Cassette

Dancing in the Dark is an album by Sonny Rollins, released in 1987. As one of the late career releases of this acclaimed jazz saxophonist, the album reflects a mature interpretation of several American standards, showcasing Rollins’s enduring creativity and technical mastery.

This album stands out in Rollins’s discography for its smooth, refined sound, a departure from the hard bop style that characterized much of his earlier work. Instead, Dancing in the Dark features a more relaxed, lyrical approach to jazz, with Rollins employing his deep, melodic saxophone skills to explore the nuances of each tune. The title track, a cover of the classic song originally composed by Arthur Schwartz and Howard Dietz, is a highlight, offering a lush, expressive rendition that captures the mood and sophistication of the original while injecting Rollins’s unique jazz sensibility.

The better-than-usual repertoire (including the calypso ‘Duke or Iron,’ ‘Dancing in the Dark’ and the Warren & Dubin number ‘I’ll String Along with You’) makes this outing by Sonny Rollins’s usual band (with trombonist Clifton Anderson,, keyboardist Mark Soskin, electric bassist Jerome Harris and drummer Marvin ‘Smitty’ Smith) one of the more interesting Rollins albums of recent times. Although not up to the level of his best live performances, this studio album is quite enjoyable and gives one a clear idea as to how Sonny Rollins sounded in the 1980s.

The supporting musicians on the album contribute to its polished, cohesive sound, creating a backdrop that allows Rollins’s saxophone to shine. Their skilled accompaniment complements his exploratory solos, adding depth and texture to the arrangements.

Dancing in the Dark received praise for its artistic depth and for Rollins’s ability to remain a vital force in jazz, even in the later stages of his career. The album is often recommended for those who appreciate jazz that combines technical skill with emotional expression, serving as a fine example of Rollins’s ability to adapt and reinterpret familiar melodies through a fresh, vibrant lens.

Milestone Records

Song List
1. Just Once
2. O. T. Y. O. G.
3. Promise
4. Duke Of Iron
5. Dancing In The Dark
6. I’ll String Along With You
7. Allison