Few albums wear their title as confidently as Cool Struttin’. Released in 1958 on Blue Note, this Sonny Clark-led session is one of the most iconic—and effortlessly stylish—hard bop records of the era. With its legendary Reid Miles cover design, Rudy Van Gelder’s pristine engineering, and an all-star lineup, Cool Struttin’ has become a holy grail for collectors and a go-to listen for jazz newcomers. But more than just cool surface, the album swings hard, blues deep, and delivers on every level.
The mood is urban sophistication with a hint of mischief. It’s the sound of a night out in late-’50s New York, strutting past neon-lit jazz clubs with a rhythm in your step. Clark’s piano style is clean, bluesy, and deeply swinging—never overwrought, always tasteful. His touch is light, but his phrasing is crisp and soulful, steeped in gospel and bop. This isn't Clark trying to revolutionize jazz—he's perfecting a sound already in motion, giving it bounce, wit, and depth
Cool Struttin’ has become one of the most beloved Blue Note albums of all time, especially for fans of piano-led hard bop. It’s often cited alongside works by Horace Silver and Red Garland, but Clark brings his own subtle flavor—a mix of elegance, ease, and sly swing. Though Clark died tragically young at 31, this album remains his definitive statement—a cool flame that never went out.
Musicians:
Sonny Clark – piano
Art Farmer – trumpet
Jackie McLean – alto saxophone
Paul Chambers – bass
Philly Joe Jones – drums
