Nat King Cole Trio - After Midnight - The Complete Session is a jazz album that showcases Nat King Cole's remarkable abilities as both a pianist and vocalist. Originally released in 1957, this remastered 2 LP edition captures Cole at a pivotal moment in his career when he was transitioning from being primarily known as a jazz instrumentalist to becoming one of the most celebrated popular singers of his era. The album features Cole's classic trio alongside five distinguished guest soloists including
Harry "Sweets" Edison on trumpet, Willie Smith on alto saxophone, Juan Tizol on valve trombone, Stuff Smith on violin, and drummer Lee Young. The sessions were recorded in Los Angeles and represent some of Cole's finest small-group work, demonstrating the depth and breadth of his jazz roots that often gets overshadowed by his later commercial success as a vocalist.
The Complete Session is a precious collection that balances Cole's role as both an accompanist and soloist, featuring his piano work alternating between providing subtle backgrounds and elegant solos. This remastered edition includes bonus tracks not present on the original
vinyl release, offering listeners a comprehensive view of the recording sessions in their original order. The album stands as an excellent entry point for those seeking to understand Cole's place in jazz piano history while also appealing to fans more familiar with his work as a popular vocalist. It remains one of Cole's best records, capturing an intimate and authentic musical collaboration between Cole and his distinguished guest artists, confirming his
status as a major figure in both popular vocal and jazz instrumental traditions.
