A great collection of rare material by Hawk, put together by Henri Renaud for CBS France. The set features tracks recorded in a number of different settings – with The Chocolate DAndies, Red McKenzie's Mound City Blue Blowers, Benny Goodman, Jack Purvis Orchestra, Count Basie, and Hawkins' own orchestra. Titles include "Dark Clouds", "Hush My Mouth", "Ain't Cha Got Music", "9:20 Special", and "Feedin The Bean". LP, Vinyl record album

Previously-unissued live work from Sun Ra – a very hip set recorded in Cleveland during the mid 70s, and a performance that features some especially nice organ work from Ra himself! The set begins with an extended number titled "Astro Nation" – a slightly funky cut that has some great chanting from the group, almost the same level of politics you might find in Parliament's "Chocolate City" – matched with some bold keyboards and horns. Group chants continue on "Enlightenment", which is taken in a short version – then Ra's organ takes over on "Love In Outer Space", which is performed in a long take, with a romping rhythm that's mighty nice. Organ continues on "Theme Of The Stargazers" and "Friendly Galaxy 2" – then Ra hits a very noisy stretch on the moog during "Synthesizer Solo". The group rounds things up with a version of "Sophisticated Lady" – and other players include Akh Tal Ebah and Kwame Hadi on trumpet, John Gilmore on tenor, Marshall Allen and Danny Davis on alto and flute, and Damon Choice on vibes. June Tyson and Eddie Thomas are also part of the group on vocals! CD

Includes performaces with The Rhythmakers, Little Chocolate Dandies, Red McKenzie & His Mound City Blue Blowers, Ted Lewis & His Band, and Jack Teagarden & His Orchestra. LP, Vinyl record album

Wonderfully moody piano work from Joe Bonner – working here in spare solo space on one of his most evocative albums of the 70s! The album's filled with swirling piano lines, played in the usual sensitive Bonner style – stark single-note melodies standing out, couched by fuller chords that are dripping with color. The piano's acoustic throughout, but as with Kenny Barron at this time, there's a slight hint of electricity in the phrasing – and titles include "Tattoo", "Little Chocolate Boy", "Native Son", "The Lifesaver", and "The Observer". LP, Vinyl record album