Rhino Handmade's exclusive release Hommage A Nesuhi is a five-CD boxed set honoring legendary Atlantic Records producer Nesuhi Ertegun. This release contains 61 songs by various artists dating from 1955-76. These artists were all part of the sterling roster assembled by Ertegun during his tenure as head of Atlantic's jazz division. The aim of the set is to represent the full scope of Ertegun's impact on the jazz world. Although it was Nesuhi's younger brother Ahmet who founded Atlantic Records (with Herb Abramson), the elder Ertegun joined the label in 1955 and produced some of the most significant jazz recordings of the era.
The collection is lavishly packaged in a 10" x 10" slipcase and includes some extra goodies besides the five CDs. An 84-page hardcover book tells Ertegun's story in extensive detail. A considerable amount of history is made available to those who want to go beyond the music. A portfolio of 19 photo cards offers a visual glimpse of some of the Atlantic Jazz artists who's work is featured. These photos are previously unpublished and were all taken by celebrated photographer Lee Friedlander.
Of course, the music is the main attraction and these discs are packed with great stuff. The songs, all of which were previously available on earlier releases, are arranged thematically. The first disc, "Some Atlantic Jazz," and the last disc, "Some More Atlantic Jazz," feature selections from some of the earliest Ertegun signings as well as later discoveries. In the former category, we have tunes from Milt Jackson, Chris Connor, and The Modern Jazz Quartet. The latter category features the likes of Mose Allison, Eddie Harris, and The Charles Lloyd Quartet. Also accounted for on discs one and five are such greats as Ray Charles, John Coltrane, and Rahsaan Roland Kirk.
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