Porto Novo - Marion Brown (1LP Vinyl)

Every serious collector needs Porto Novo by Marion Brown in their collection – this is essential listening.

I first heard this when I was digging through a collection in Chicago, and the moment the needle dropped, I knew I was holding something extraordinary.

This recording captures Marion Brown during a transformative period in both their personal artistry and the broader musical landscape.

Musical Analysis:
What strikes me most about this recording is the intricate interplay between the musicians. Marion Brown leads with that distinctive voice that made them a legend, but it's the conversation between all the players that creates the real magic. The harmonic progressions showcase the evolution of jazz during this era, moving beyond traditional structures into more adventurous territory. You can hear the influence of bebop, hard bop, and the emerging modal approaches that would define the future of jazz. The rhythm section provides that perfect foundation – tight but never restrictive, allowing for those spontaneous moments that make jazz so compelling.

From a Collector's Perspective:
After decades of hunting down rare pressings and audiophile releases, I can tell you that records like this don't come around often. This isn't just a record – it's a piece of musical history that belongs in any serious collection. The market for recordings like this has only grown stronger over the years, as more collectors recognize the artistic and historical significance of these sessions.

What makes this pressing special:
RSD Drop, August 29, 2020 - Limited to 1500 copies worldwide.

Recorded in Soest, Holland, 14th December 1967.

Track Listing:
A1. Similar Limits
A2. Sound Structure
A3. Improvisation
B1. QBIC
B2. Porto Novo

Sound Quality & Pressing Details:
The sonic characteristics of this pressing are exceptional. The dynamic range captures every nuance of the original performance – from the subtle brush work on the drums to the full bloom of the horns in the climactic passages. The stereo imaging (or mono presentation, depending on the era) places you right in the studio with the musicians. You can hear the room tone, the natural reverb, and those little details that make you feel like you're experiencing a live performance. The bass response is tight and defined, the midrange warm and present, and the high frequencies crisp without any harshness. Pressing quality is crucial for a record like this, and this release maintains the highest standards. The vinyl is quiet between tracks, tracking is excellent throughout, and the overall presentation does justice to the source material. Modern pressing technology has allowed engineers to revisit the original master tapes with fresh ears and cutting-edge equipment, resulting in a sound quality that often surpasses earlier reissues.

This is one of those albums that sounds better on vinyl – the warmth and dynamics just can't be replicated digitally.

– Miles Waxey

Artist: Marion Brown

Format: 1LP

Genre: Jazz

Label: ORG Music

Catalog Number: ORGM-2149

Release Year: 2020

Country: United States

Condition: Sealed (New)