234 – Shelly Manne – LP – Pre Owned Vinyl (Arrives in 14days)

Shelly Manne’s ‘234’ is a masterclass in West Coast jazz, a session where understatement and interplay reign. Recorded in 1962, this album brings together a powerhouse quartet: Manne on drums, Hank Jones at the piano, Coleman Hawkins on tenor sax, and Eddie ‘Lockjaw’ Davis on tenor. Here, Manne’s touch is both supple and commanding, allowing his collaborators ample space to shine while never losing the gentle propulsion that is his hallmark.

The repertoire leans into standards, but there’s nothing routine about these interpretations—each track breathes with relaxed sophistication and subtle wit. Hawkins and Davis trade lines with a conversational ease, while Jones’ piano brings an elegant lyricism. Manne’s drumming, always attentive and never showy, ties it all together with quiet authority.

For jazz lovers who appreciate albums that reveal new details with every spin, ‘234’ is a treasure. It’s the sound of top-tier musicians shaping the tradition on their own terms, balancing tradition and personal expression. Whether you’re deep into the West Coast scene or just discovering its understated joys, this is an essential listen. Let it spin and sink into its warm, inviting groove.

Track List:
A1 – Take The “A” Train – 7:23
A2 – The Sicks Of Us – 5:53
A3 – Slowly – 5:27
B1 – Lean On Me – 6:18
B2 – Cherokee – 3:22
B3 – Me And Some Drums – 5:54