The Cannonball Adderley Quintet, Nat Adderley – In San Francisco

The Cannonball Adderley Quintet in San Francisco, recorded live in October 1959 at The Jazz Workshop and released by Riverside Records, is widely considered one of the most important live jazz albums of its era. Featuring Cannonball Adderley on alto saxophone, Nat Adderley on cornet, Bobby Timmons on piano, Sam Jones on bass, and Louis Hayes on drums, the record captures the quintet in top form. The energy is electric, the solos are fiery, and the audience reactions—audible throughout—add an infectious atmosphere that enhances the immediacy of the performance.

The album blends soulful hard bop with gospel and blues influences, highlighted by Bobby Timmons’ “This Here,” a track that helped usher in the soul jazz movement. Cannonball’s engaging spoken introductions add a conversational, intimate touch, making listeners feel like part of the club crowd. From the joyous swing of “Spontaneous Combustion” to the blues-drenched “You Got It!”, this album remains a benchmark for live jazz recordings—lively, accessible, and artistically sharp.

Reviews

“One of the most exciting live jazz records ever made. The crowd is electric, the band is on fire.” – DownBeat

“This Here” became an instant soul-jazz classic, and the whole set pulses with joy and grit.” – The Guardian

“Cannonball’s warmth, wit, and unrelenting swing are on full display. A live album that feels truly alive.” – JazzTimes

“This record captures lightning in a bottle. It’s what live jazz should be: vibrant, raw, and deeply connected to its audience.” – AllMusic

“The gold standard of soul-jazz, In San Francisco swings hard and communicates joy without compromise.” – Pitchfork