Jazz lovers gotta check this personal collection of photos from Blue Note's co-founder, Francis Wolff. Of course you know the label and its legendary artists, but it's time to get deeper folks. Not only did Wolff start the label with Alfred Lion after escaping Berlin and the Third Reich, they went on to produce such greats like Jimmy Smith, Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Grant Green, John Coltrane, Lee Morgan, Hank Mobley, Art Blakey, and many more. Formerly a professional photographer, Wolff’s camera never stayed idle. During Blue Note's golden years he captured some of the label's most famous studio sessions, live jams and artists in their purest form. Some pictures show icons like Miles and Thelonious looking so young you'll hardly recognize them! And if that's not the real dope, sink your teeth into the stories behind the photos. Can't think of a better way to get 'em than straight from the source. Softcover, 176 pages, full color and B&W photos.

reviewed by C'mish