Wynton Kelly – Kelly Blue (E/VG+) – LP, JP 1970, No OBI

Kelly Blue is an LP by Wynton Kelly from 1970 released on the Riverside Records label.

About this album

Kelly Blue is a warm, finely balanced hard-bop set that highlights Wynton Kelly’s gift for melodic swing and blues-inflected touch. Recorded in 1959, the album finds the pianist leading a strong small group with poise and clarity, shaping standards and originals into a relaxed but sharply defined performance. Its title track and readings of songs like “Softly, As in a Morning Sunrise” and “Willow Weep for Me” show Kelly’s blend of elegance, drive and understatement. Often praised as one of his signature statements, the record captures a pianist whose accompanying work was already legendary, while making a strong case for his own voice as a leader.

Genre: Jazz