One can make the argument, that the term “Holy Grail” is sometimes used a bit too loosely, however that certainly isn’t the case when applied to Ron Everett’s 1977 obscure soul jazz masterpiece Glitter Of The City. Originally self-released in 1977 on a shoestring budget, UK’s Jazzman Records has recently reissued the essential recording as a part of it’s ongoing superb Jazzman Holy Grail series.

Originally recorded as a seven-track album and circulated in small quantities among the Philadelphia region, this incredible recording spans a lot of territory, from soulful jazz grooves and blues, to spiritual jazz and Latin rhythms. About half the tracks feature vocals, including the album’s incredible standout title track (featuring vocals from singer listed as Tahira), which is worth “price of admission” on it’s own. Throughout the session Everett holds it down on both trumpet and lead vocals, and he’s backed by a number of (at the time) Philadelphia-based musicians.

Taking a very hands on DIY approach, the original release artwork was constructed by a black and white xerox paper glued onto a plain white sleeve. Featuring restored artwork and audio, including three previously unreleased bonus tracks that were discovered while researching the project, the well-crafted reissue also comes with a printed inner sleeve with insightful liner notes and photos.

Numbered and limited to just 1500 copies, I highly recommend picking up a copy immediately. Kudos to Jazzman Records for putting together and releasing one of the greatest reissues you’ll ever come across, period.

Ron Everett — ‘Glitter of The City’
(Originally released: 1977 / Vagabond King)
(Reissued: 2021 / Jazzman Records)

1. Royal Walk
2. Glitter Of The City (Song By Tahira)
3. Tipsy Lady
4. Mood Two Latin For You
5. Pretty Little Girl
6. Musicman New Rock Joy
7. Let Your Spirits Be Free
8. Fanfare for Coltrane
9. Untitled No.4
10. Untitled No.5

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• Jazz
• Jazz Dance
• Jazz Funk