Bobby Timmons - The Riverside Albums Collection (2018)

Born into a deeply religious family in Philadelphia on 19th December 1935, Robert Henry Bobby Timmons took his first musical steps at a young age. Taught piano as a child by his uncle Robert Habershaw, who also taught John Coltrane's future pianist Alfred McCoy Tyner, the young Bobby joined a family wide tradition of producing musical prodigies. The son and grandson of ministers, Timmons first performed at the family church where, at times, he played alongside future jazz drummer Albert Tootie Heath. He was awarded a scholarship to the Philadelphia Musical Academy after graduating high school. In 1954, Timmons moved to New York and began a fruitful career as a session musician. His debut recording session was with trumpeter Kenny Dorham in 1956, following which, during '56 and '57, he worked with other pioneering players such as Chet Baker, Maynard Ferguson, Curtis Fuller, Hank Mobley and Lee Morgan. In 1959, Timmons signed a seven album deal with Riverside, who soon issued his first record as bandleader; This Here is Bobby Timmons. Released in January 1960 and performed by the trio of Bobby Timmons with Sam Jones on bass and Jimmy Cobb on drums, the album was warmly received. In 1959, Timmons signed a seven album deal with Riverside, who soon issued his first record as bandleader; This Here is Bobby Timmons. Released in January 1960 and performed by the trio of Bobby Timmons with Sam Jones on bass and Jimmy Cobb on drums, the album was warmly received, including as it did his three most famous compositions to date. This 4CD collection brings together the entirety of Bobby Simmons repertoire for Riverside, featuring eight albums originally released between 1957 and 1964, all now faithfully re-mastered and culminating in over 5 hours of superb modern jazz. Serving as both the perfect introduction to this jazz giant's music, and as a welcome reminder of his finest work, this enticing boxed set will delight everyone who takes the time to listen.