SteepleChase
1166 products
Copenhagen Unissued Session
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Oct 05, 2024
Jan 30, 1977 a day after the sold out 3-day concerts celebrating Stan’s 50th birthday in Copenhagen Stan and his crew including Danish ace bassist Ørsted Pedersen were in studio to record. The huge success of the double live album kept us in suspense for three decades for the release of the unissued material. Well, here it is for us to enjoy.
“The miracle of Getz’s style … in the coexistence of restraint and fire, of simmering emotions beneath the glassy surface of his timbre.” (Neil Tesser) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Lover Man
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Apr 15, 2024
Recorded on the same day after the quintet session (SCCD 31046 Duke’s Delight) in a New York studio in 1975 this attractive trio recording “comprises nearly 40 minutes of sheer unpretentious enjoyment.” (Mark Gardner - Jazz Journal UK)
Duke Jordan’s long association with SteepleChase started with Jordan’s visit to Copenhagen in 1973. The collaboration yielded impressive hoard of highly acclaimed albums including SCCD 31011 Flight To Denmark).
This session with the very best sidemen New York could offer - the veteran bassist Sam Jones and the great drummer Al Foster (who joined Miles Davis shortly after this session - enabled Jordan to display his attractive personal touch featuring Jordan’s own melodious compositions. 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Song for Biko
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Jan 25, 2022
Johnny Mbizo Dyani (bassist/composer) was born in East London, South Africa November 30, 1945 to grow up to be one of the most internationally acknowledged musicians. Since his arrival in England in 1965 as a member of South African jazz group called The Blue Notes Dyani had chosen Scandinavia as his home base and had built an active career until a rare disease shortened his life all too soon. He died in Berlin, Germany in 1986.
This album recorded in the summer of 1978 with the powerful front line-up of Don Cherry and Dudu Pukwana. The album was dedicated to the martyred South African activist against apartheid Steve Biko (1946-1977) with whom Dyani shared a cultural and linguistic heritage of Xhosa.
“Dyani wrote all of the material for this record and it proves to be a vital factor in the success of the date. Both Cherry and Pukwana react favourably, while bringing their own personalities strongly to bear... this fine record can be recommended without reservation.” (Barry McRae, Jazz Journal International July 1979)
“...there are possibly a handful of albums every year which are worth living with. This is one of them.” (Brian Case, Melody Maker June 1979) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
The Meeting
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Sep 15, 2022
This summit meeting of the two giants of post-war American jazz attracted enormous attention and accolade from the world jazz fans when released in 1974. Jackie McLean (1931 - 2006) and Dexter Gordon (1923 - 1990) who were at their pinnacle of creative aptitude joined forces to thrill the packed fans at Copenhagen’s Jazzhus Montmartre in the summer of 1973.
After 49 years this 180g audiophile version may bring back the heat wave of jazz in Europe of the 70s.
“…McLean and Dexter are naturals to play together and on this album they are both at their best.” (B. McRae – Jazz Journal)
“This LP is a live recording of the best jazz performance from European live scene of 1973. I firmly believe that this document will carry its immortal value for the years to come…” (Teruo Isono – Swing Journal) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Introducing Doug Raney
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Nov 15, 2022
Doug Raney was 22 years old when this highly acclaimed debut leader album was recorded in Copenhagen with veteran Duke Jordan on piano, Danish Hugo Rasmussen (bass) and the one and only Billy Hart on drums. During his relatively short life (1956 – 2016) Doug followed his legendary guitarist father Jimmy Raney’s footsteps but established himself as a definitely unique artist on his own at the early stage of his life. He called Denmark his home and resided in Copenhagen until his untimely death at the age of 59.
“That talent, in some cases, can be transmitted intact from father to son is a proposition that Introducing Doug Raney seems to prove...a lovely album...” (Larry Kart, Chicago Tribune)
“...What a dashing, gallant debut! ...Young Raney is blessed with extraordinary talent. Highly recommended.” (Yoshio Maki, Swing Journal)
“...Doug Raney possède une très belle technique, une musicalité suprême, un goût exquis, une extraorinaire intuition harmonique....” (Maurice Cullaz, Jazz Hot) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Destiny Is Yours
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Oct 15, 2022
Billy Harper (b. 1943) is one of the most prominent figures in today’s jazz scene. He rose to his stardom through his stints with Gil Evans’ Orchestra, Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and the Thad Jones- Mel Lewis Orchestra. Harper started leading his own group in the late 70s and has been touring all over the world with his group since.
Of this New York studio recording Chinyére Nealé wrote in the linernotes, “Nils Winther of SteepleChase has wanted to record Billy for fifteen years. Finally, destiny has made this recording possible.”
French magazine COMPACT described this CD as “a real treasure which will bring you pleasure till the last day of your life.” 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Blues For Harvey
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Jun 15, 2023
Johnny “Little Giant” Griffin moved to France in 1963 leaving USA where the straight-ahead jazz’s heyday was fast waning. Together with other expatriates such as Dexter Gordon, Bud Powell, Kenny Clarke Griffin had highly productive career in Europe. The original version of this 180G LP was recorded live over two nights in 1973 at Copenhagen’s jazzhus Montmartre.
“...this is a superb Griffin recording in a long time...” (Swing Journal)
“Johnny Griffin in the 1970s remains The Little Giant - a joy to hear and this must be his most representative album in ages...” (Coda) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Notes On Ornette
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Jan 15, 2024
This 1998 recording of Paul Bley is here as 180g audiophile LP for the first time. It wholly dedicated to the music of Ornette Coleman, with whom Paul was the major participant of that exciting musical experimentation some 60 years ago.
“…here is an intriguing and most stimulating date that does full justice to the writing of Ornette while showcasing the vitality and virtuosity of the creative Paul Bley in full flow with two top notch companions with him all the way…” (Mark Gardner)
“…anyone who has ever enjoyed the pianist should seek out Notes on Ornette. Bley still enjoys throwing seemingly unrelated bits of improvised melody together, but here he often goes to the other extreme, spinning out lines that seem endless in which a few simple ideas continually transmogrify.” (Baker, D. – JazzTimes) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Groovin' With Big G
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Feb 15, 2024
Big G as in George Coleman, Sr.
The legendary tenor saxophonist is the featured artist here on Brian Charette’s new album. George Coleman is the recipient of 2015 NEA (The National Endowment for the Arts) Jazz Masters Awards, the highest honor USA gives to a jazz musician.
For B-3’s most adventurous and talented practitioner Brian Charette who has known the Coleman father and son for more than a couple of decades, this recording materialized as a musical homecoming.
“Both B-3 stylist and student, serious jazz scholar and glitzy entertainer, Charette is a burning soloist who understands the tradition of the Hammond B-3 as well its future—just as certainly as he understands his place in that lineage.” (Ken Micallef Downbeat Magazine) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
In Monk's Mood
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Mar 15, 2024
Congolese - Danish saxophonist/composer John Tchicai (1936-2012) recorded this straight-ahead jazz album in 2009 surprising his usual followers who regarded Tchicai as the legendary leader of the 60’s free jazz scene.
During the free jazz period he resided in New York associated with free jazz artists such as Archie Shepp, Don Cherry and New York Contemporary Five and left a number of famous recordings including Ascension album by John Coltrane.
As “God Father” or “Guru” of free jazz Tchicai has been active on the scene but this first leader album in 22 years for SteepleChase label he also returned to play his original instrument alto sax. Tchicai interpreted works by Thelonious Monk with his striking sound.
Mark Gardner who is a contributor of Jazz Journal International concludes his liner notes for the CD release of this recording by noting, “And now he's back on SteepleChase with a warm and welcome tribute to an early influence - an inspired concept, beautifully realised.” 180g Audiophile Vinyl
All Of Me
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Sep 15, 2023
Magnificently iconic tenor player to come out of the post-Swing Era Eddie Lockjaw Davis (1922-1986) cut two albums for SteepleChase during his late years. This album was recorded in 1983 in Copenhagen, which earned superlative reviews all over the world.
“Tenorman Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis had already been a potent force in jazz for 35 years when he recorded this set but as it turned out his SteepleChase date (his next-to-last session) was one of the strongest of his career. Accompanied by a trio led by pianist Kenny Drew, Lockjaw really tears into these standards which are highlighted by "I Only Have Eyes for You," "There Is No Greater Love" (the alternate version was released for the first time on its CD reissue), "Four" and the title cut. Davis was at the peak of his powers during this recording, making this SteepleChase outing one of his very best.” (Scott Yanow – AllMusic)
“Nothing valedictory about this date. No signs of decline. It’s hard to believe it was Jaw’s last album as a leader. Just the thing if you didn’t miss your water until your well went dry.” (Cadence) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Bouncing With Dex
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Aug 15, 2023
It is safe to say that the latter half of Dexter Gordon’s European years (1961-1976) found him most inspired and productive. This album recorded in a Copenhagen studio in September of 1975 precedes to Gordon’s most publicised homecoming to the States. With his favourite rhythm section of Montoliu, NHØP and Billy Higgins Dexter is in his pinnacle. It is also noteworthy to know that this is the only studio recording Dexter Gordon and the formidable Catalonian pianist made together.
“... Today, more than 30 years after he made his first dates for Savoy, he is playing better than ever... From the opener, Billie’s Bounce, the record settles into a beautiful groove and the interest never lets up...” (Mike Hennessey, Jazz Journal International)
“…Almost all Nils Winther’s Danish SteepleChase label releases have been better than the CBS albums, and this is certainly no exception.” (Michigan State News) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Dark Beauty
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Nov 15, 2023
Kenny Drew (August 28, 1928 / New York – August 4, 1993 / Copenhagen) spent the last three decades of his life in Copenhagen as a stalwart of vibrant European jazz scene. He left quite a number of outstanding recordings both as leader and sideman on SteepleChase.
Here on his first trio recording for the label, Kenny Drew is backed by – to quote Melody Maker – Danish bass wizard Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen and intelligent purveyor of rhythm Albert “Tootie” Heath. Dark Beauty whose album cover is graced by a portrait photo of his daughter Sabrina is one of the most popular albums of his recording career.
“...extremely charming main stream jazz..” (Swing Journal)
“...brilliant!” (Jazz Magazine)
“Kenny has a relaxed, attractive style, free from embellishments or dramatic devices, but capable of generating happy swing…” (C.W. Meloday Maker on SCS 1016) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Paul Plays Carla
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
May 15, 2023
One of the most original musicians of our time pianist Paul Bley passed away in 2016 at the age of 83. He left immeasurable influence on the generations of piano players behind him. He was married to Swedish-American pianist/composer Carla Bley in the 50s. Carla’s compositions occupied larger part of his repertoire then.
“ …(This CD) features ten pieces by Carla Bley, his former wife, that he has been playing for thirty years but he’s still finding new things in them. Some of these tunes are surprisingly frisky given Bley’s austere reputation…this is another 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Revelation
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Mar 15, 2023
Legendary American piano player/composer Andrew Hill (June 30, 1931 – April 20, 2007) lived an active and fruitful life leaving us a legacy of unique, enigmatic music. Hill, however disappeared from the scene for about a decade in the late 60s. This album and its predecessor SCCD 31026 “Invitation” released in the mid. 70’s paved his way back to the limelight he deserved. Andrew Hill received numerous awards including Lifetime Achievement Award from the Jazz Foundation of America (1997).
“... Divine Revelation certainly earns its title, for it reveals to any newcomer to his music… Hill at his most inspired, and most enigmatic ....” (Simon Adams, Jazz Journal International, March 1995) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
But Beautiful
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
May 08, 2022
Joe Locke recorded this album in 1991, when his name as a new vibraphonist was gaining serious momentum on the NY scene.
Following his highly acclaimed debut album “Present Tense” (SCCD 31257) and the ensuing “Longing” (SCCD 31281) from SteepleChase this third album showcases Locke’s lyricism in a ballad collection accompanied by the master Kenny Barron.
“if your mood of the moment is to surround yourself with something soft and lovely, Locke and Barron will make things beautiful.” (Cadence) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
The House I Live In
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Jul 06, 2024
Saxophonist and playwright Archie Shepp (b. May 24, 1937 in Fort Lauderdale. FL) then 26 years old visited Copenhagen in the fall of 1963 as a member of the famed New York Contemporary Five.
Though Shepp at that time was the passionate practitioner of Free jazz, this recording in which he shared the bandstand with Sweden’s legendary baritone saxophonist Lars Gullin is something quite different from what one normally expects from Shepp in the 60s. It is Shepp playing straight jazz with audible enjoyment showing off his broad range of expression.
“The topnotch rhythm section is composed of the late Catalonian pianist Tete Montoliu and a pair of “young lions,” Swedish (Danish ed) drummer Alex Riel and Danish bassist Niels–Henning Ørsted Pedersen, seventeen years old when the recording was made. Montoliu’s swinging, straight–on solos are a breath of fresh air.” (Jack Bowers – AAJ) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Malmö Sweden 1965
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Aug 23, 2024
Sweden in the 60s was experiencing the surge of cool jazz (Tristano tradition) and saw young alto saxophonist Rolf Billberg emerged on the scene as one of its most talented practitioners. Due to his premature death at age 35 ten months after this recording his name never made it to the stardom. This hitherto unknown album is one rare testimony to the state of Swedish jazz scene. It was recorded in November 1965 privately in the legendary live/rehearsal basement club Subland in Malmö. 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Looking At The Moon
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Jan 10, 2025
While Allegra Levy’s second album “Cities Between Us” (SCCD 31827) cemented her strong talent as a singer/songwriter, here on this her third album Allegra the singer steps up to the front interpreting time-tested as well as newer moon–themed songs. “Levy is a gifted lyricist and she writes often light thoughts and observations but from a personal point of view. Vocal fans should seek this out as Levy fills a spot that is fresh and rewarding in the pantheon of vocalists. A carefully produced CD full of rewards.” (Robert D. Rusch – Papatamas on SCCD 31827 Cities Between Us). “Levy is a fresh new voice, with songs steeped in the tradition and primed to join the canon.” (Jim Motavalli – New York City Jazz Record on SCCD 31827 Cities Between Us) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Super Blonde
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Feb 14, 2025
“colorful, witty, unpredictable, inventive and swinging” is what jazz critic Scott Yanow observes of cornetist/composer Knuffke. He created here an astoundingly musical sounding board by the two phenomenal double bass players: SteepleChase stalwart Jay Anderson (left channel) and Swedish born Thommy Andersson (right channel). 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Resonance
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Feb 14, 2025
John Hart’s collaboration with SteepleChase started in 2016 with sideman role on the late alto sax Andy Fusco’s Turmoil (SCCD 31843). The guitarist/composer/educator Hart since has kept releasing a barrage of highly acclaimed leader albums. On this his fifth outing he has assembled an impeccable quartet featuring Rich Perry on tenor and Brian Charette on B-3. “He has just released Resonance (2023) on SteepleChase, his fifth date for the legendary Danish label headed by Nils Winther. Labelmate, tenor saxophonist Rich Perry joins him along with organist Brian Charette and longtime collaborator Steve Johns handling the percussion duties. The breadth and eclecticism of Resonance’s playlist is plainly evident from Hart’s illustrious recording pedigree. We hear a refreshing mix of five originals and four standards.”
(Frank Griffith – UK JAZZ NEWS) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Dameron: Tadd’s All, Folks
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Mar 14, 2025
This album is all about Tadd Dameron (1917 - 65), one of the most important American jazz composer/musicians. The master baritone saxophonist and perennial pole winner Gary Smulyan conceived the brilliant idea of recording Dameron compositions with lyrics. The vocal part is phenomenally rendered by the young talent Anaïs Reno. Three songs including the lovely This Night Of Stars have hitherto never been recorded.
“While Smulyan solos brilliantly throughout, Reno is the real treat here.” (Bill Milkowski – DownBeat on SCCD 31936).
“Smulyan here brings to light Dameron’s heretofore unknown Library of Congress trove of standard-quality off-Broadway gems.” (Fred Bouchard – NYCJR on SCCD 31936) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Timeline
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
May 23, 2025
40 years ago Bill Evans and Jim Hall recorded two brilliant duo albums called “Intermodulations” and “Undercurrent”. Andy Laverne and John Abercrombie whose collaboration dates back to the late 1960s
have been inspired by the Evans-Hall recordings and have been experimenting with the format.
Andy LaVerne remarks, "Over the years we have collaborated as a duo many times in concerts, club dates, workshop sessions. I guess Bill and Jim set a wonderful example to us of what could be achieved by the piano/guitar instrumentation”.
This LP, though it is neither re-creation nor copying of the original material, is an evolution of the predecessors. 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Lullaby for a Monster
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
May 23, 2025
June 15, 1976 Long tall Dexter plunges into a blowing spree in this unusual piano-less trio format. “...It contains some of his freest solos, notably On Green Dolphin Street...” (The Penguin Guide to Jazz)
C. Andrew Hovan the author of the new liner notes for the album writes: “Lullaby for a Monster”, recorded just before his triumphant homecoming, stands as a powerful reminder of an era when jazz giants roamed in abundance. A favorite among musicians, this album deserves wider recognition within Gordon’s impressive discography.”
“...intense and vibrant music throughout...” (DIAPASON, France)
“.... in this stripped down setting Dexter Gordon is truly on fire ...” (Soulpope – The Jazz Beat) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Visions
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Jun 27, 2025
Recorded in the summer of 1978 in Manhattan’s C. I. Recording Studio this rare encounter of jazz’s supreme instrumentalists and individualists Walt Dickerson (1928 – 2008) and Sun Ra (1914 – 1993) became an instant cult album among the followers of Avant Garde jazz of the 70s.
The author of the newly added liner notes Neil Tesser remarks, “Nearly a half-century after the fact, Visions now stands as a milestone of free improvisation
Almost half a century ago Trevor Tolley of Canadian jazz publication CODA enthused, “This is a tremendous record.... outstanding collaborations throughout this beautiful record, as well as some gloriously sustained solo passages.... it is the work of two masters in the full certainty of their powers.” 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Jaywalkin’
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Aug 22, 2025
SteepleChase proudly presents the 2025 audiophile reissue of Jaywalkin', the iconic 1976 album by legendary Danish jazz bassist Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen. Known for his impeccable technique and rich, resonant tone, Pedersen’s playing on this album is nothing short of masterful.Remastered from the original analog tapes for unparalleled sound clarity 180g heavyweight vinyl with exclusive new liner notes exploring the album’s legacy and Pedersen’s virtuosity by bassist and NHØP biographer Thomas Ovesen
Featuring Philip Catherine on guitar, Ole Kock Hansen on electric piano, and Billy Higgins on drums, Jaywalkin' is a dynamic blend of swing, bossa nova, and intricate jazz improvisation. The title track "Jaywalkin'" stands as one of Pedersen’s finest performances, showcasing his effortless command over rhythm and melody.
A Must-Have for Jazz Collectors
Witchdoctor’s Son
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Oct 31, 2025
“...Witchdoctor’s Son contains the most infectious, buoyant, gleeful music...the interaction between Pukwana and Tchicai’s vastly differing phrase sensibilities is one of the joys of this recording...” (Lange, Down Beat)
“...from Dyani’s most consistently inventive period...” (The Penguin Guide To JAZZ)
The timeless brilliance of jazz with the remastered edition of Johnny Dyani's Witchdoctor's Son, originally recorded in 1978 brings together musicians from South Africa, Denmark, and Brazil, blending their unique styles with the rich heritage of American jazz. The presence of John Tchicai, a stalwart of the New York jazz scene, adds depth to this remarkable record. The music is deeply rooted in South African traditions, with themes composed by Johnny Dyani and Dudu Pukwana, and traditional tunes arranged by them. The spirit of Africa, especially the Xhosa world, is a constant presence throughout the album.
Monsoon
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Nov 21, 2025
The two-time winner of Grammy Awards, alto saxophonist Gary Bartz (b. Baltimore, Sept. 26, 1940) studied music at the Julliard School in New York. He then worked with many prominent players like Max Roach, Art Blakey, Blue Mitchell, McCoy Tyner in the 60s. His international fame came when he joined Miles Davis in the early 70s.
He made his SteepleChase recording debut with Jackie McLean in 1973 (“Ode To Super” SCCD 31009). 15 years later he went into a studio in Copenhagen with the band he was touring with in Europe (except Butch Lacy replacing Joanne Brackeen on piano) to make this second album for SteepleChase.
Bartz received the BNY Mellon Jazz 2015 Living Legacy Award.
He is Professor of Jazz Saxophone at Oberlin College.
“…one of the best of Bartz’ recent releases, while it emphasizes leader’s powerful playing, the well-balanced ensemble performances are quite enticing.” (Sato – Swing Journal on SCS 1234)
Never Let Me Go
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Oct 24, 2025
Chicago’s grand tenor man Earle Lavon "Von" Freeman Sr. (October 3, 1923 – August 11, 2012) was a revered and most loved elder of the jazz scene in the Windy City. Von has been on producer Nils Winther’s top priority list of the musicians he wanted to record. The dream came true in the late spring of 1992, when Von was 72. Von’s powerful tenor is tastefully supported by his trusted rhythm section of Jodie Christian (piano), Eddie De Haas bass) and Wilbur Campbell (drums)..
“This is an excellent introduction to the Chicago style of tenor playing and to four extremely creative musicians at their peaks.” (Cadence)
Look To The Sky
SteepleChase
Vinyl
$45.99
Jan 23, 2026
Originally released in 1979 and reissued on CD in 1996 with bonus material, G1128 stands as a vibrant snapshot of two masterful trumpeters—John McNeil and Tom Harrell—at a pivotal moment in modern jazz. Now, for the first time, this landmark session returns in stunning 24bit/96kHz remastered fidelity on heavyweight 180g vinyl, preserving the warmth and swing of the original analog tapes.
Backed by a stellar rhythm section featuring Kenny Barron (piano), Buster Williams (bass), and Billy Hart (drums), McNeil and Harrell engage in a spirited, lyrical dialogue that’s as respectful of tradition as it is forward-looking. Their interplay is marked by mutual admiration rather than rivalry—Harrell’s bright, unflappable tone contrasts beautifully with McNeil’s introspective, saxophone-inspired phrasing.
For audiophiles, collectors, and jazz devotees alike, this is not just a reissue—it’s a rediscovery.
“...it’s never a duel of trumpets here but it’s the duet of trumpets...
When the two trumpeters share technique and inspiration, one cannot but enjoy the inevitable result...” (Alain Tercinet, JAZZ HOT).