Kenny Dorham’s Blue Bossa in the Bronx: Live from the Blue Morocco - A Never-Before-Heard 1967 Performance

Deluxe Package Features Insights from Grammy Winner Bob Blumenthal, Jazz Experts Dan Morgenstern, Charles Tolliver, Eddie Henderson, Steven Bernstein, Jeremy Pelt, and More

Blue Bossa in the Bronx: Live from the Blue Morocco, a previously unreleased live performance by legendary trumpeter Kenny Dorham, will be available as a limited two-LP set for Record Store Day on April 12, 2025. This thrilling archival release from Resonance Records captures Dorham in his prime at the iconic Blue Morocco jazz club in the Bronx, New York, recorded in 1967.

The collection has been expertly transferred from the original tape reels, remastered by Fran Gala at Resonance Records Studio, and pressed on high-quality 180-gram vinyl at Le Vinylist. The release will also be followed by a deluxe CD edition on April 18.

A Stellar Lineup and Historic Performance

Featuring a powerhouse lineup, Blue Bossa in the Bronx includes Sonny Red on alto sax, Cedar Walton on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Denis Charles on drums. The album kicks off with Dorham’s signature composition, “Blue Bossa,” a tune first recorded on Joe Henderson’s 1963 album Page One. The set also includes a dynamic mix of Dorham’s original compositions, standards like “Memories of You” and “My One and Only Love,” and works by jazz legends Charlie Parker, Milt Jackson, and Miles Davis.

A Tribute to Dorham’s Legacy

In the deluxe two-LP set and CD edition, Grammy-winning jazz writer Bob Blumenthal contributes insightful notes on Dorham’s profound impact on the jazz world. Dan Morgenstern, the late director of the Institute of Jazz Studies, offers a special appreciation of Dorham’s musical contributions, while top jazz trumpeters Charles Tolliver, Eddie Henderson, Steven Bernstein, and Jeremy Pelt share their personal reflections on Dorham’s enduring influence.

Produced by Zev Feldman, co-president of Resonance Records, this release marks an essential addition to the celebration of Kenny Dorham’s centenary in 2024. Feldman comments, “This recording cements Dorham’s place as a pivotal figure in modern jazz history, capturing him at a crucial point in his career.”

An Underrated Jazz Giant

Blumenthal eloquently writes about Dorham's significance, describing him as “underrated” and “a musician's musician,” highlighting his unique role in the development of modern jazz. Though Dorham often played in the shadows of more charismatic figures like Dizzy Gillespie, Fats Navarro, and Miles Davis, he was an indispensable force in jazz, collaborating with the era's greatest talents.

In his reflections, Dan Morgenstern offers a poignant tribute to Dorham’s legacy, praising him as “one of my favorite modern trumpeters” and noting his melodious, thoughtful approach to trumpet playing.

The Influence of Kenny Dorham

Several of today’s top jazz trumpeters offer high praise for Dorham’s impact on their own work:

• Eddie Henderson recalls, “From Kenny’s first note, you could tell it was him. His sound was distinct—lyrical and unmistakable. He was one of the heavyweights of that generation.”

• Charles Tolliver remembers, “Kenny crafted a tone and delivery that was inimitable. He was a trumpet hero of mine, and I loved his execution.”

• Steven Bernstein adds, “Kenny had a unique sound that you could identify from one note. He wasn’t just playing the trumpet; he was shaping the instrument to fit his voice.”

• Jeremy Pelt reflects, “Kenny Dorham had a knack for melody, with a harmonic sense that was sleek and sophisticated. He played inside the chord, making every note resonate with meaning.”

A Night to Remember

Engineer Bernard Drayton, who recorded the performance at the Blue Morocco, recalls the electrifying atmosphere: “Kenny’s ability to assemble the best musicians was extraordinary. Despite his health struggles, he was on fire that night. The vibe was pure Dorham.”

Track Highlights

• "Blue Bossa" – Dorham’s iconic composition, presented with fresh energy and precision.

• A mix of Dorham originals and jazz standards, including pieces by Parker, Davis, and Jackson.

• The extraordinary Sonny Red, Cedar Walton, Paul Chambers, and Denis Charles delivering a hard-hitting performance alongside Dorham’s signature trumpet style.