Mack Avenue Music Group Releases Reissue of "Charles Tolliver All Stars: Right Now... And Then"

 Today, Mack Avenue Music Group and Strata-East Records widely release the physical reissue of Charles Tolliver All Stars Right Now.. And Then. Releasing on CD and audiophile quality 180-gram vinyl with newly remixed audio from the original analog multi-track tapes by Andrew Taub under the supervision of Tolliver, the legendary trumpet player and composer’s debut album features a who’s who of jazz royalty, including Gary Bartz, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter and Joe Chambers. The release features new liner notes by Charles Tolliver himself, reflecting on his debut 57 years later and further celebrating the revolutionary spirit of one of the most influential artist-owned independent jazz labels in history. Originally reissued on LP exclusively as for Record Store Day 2026, the release is now available to purchase at retailers worldwide.

Listen to "Charles Tolliver All Stars: Right Now... & Then"

Listen to "Strata-East: The Legacy Begins"

In partnership with Mack Avenue Music Group, last year Strata-East released 32 historic titles on digital platforms, and reissued eight albums on CD and 180-gram vinyl for the first time to widespread acclaim from The New York Times, The Washington Post, Mojo, DownBeat, Tidal and WRTI. This series of reissues tells the story of one of Jazz’s most iconic labels, founded in resistance to major labels’ restrictions on artistic expression in the 50s and 60s. Strata-East’s commitment to freedom and high standards earned it a revered place in jazz history. Finally, the initial analog tapes have been remastered and re-released to continue its legacy for generations to come. Mastered by Kevin Grey, the releases were pressed to 180-gram vinyl at RTI with audio cut directly from the original analog tapes. The LPs also include deluxe tip-on gatefold packaging with new liner notes and never-before-seen photos.

As The New York Times stated, “you can’t tell the story of jazz in the 1970s without a serious look at Strata-East”, and Charles Tolliver’s debut is a testament to that undeniable statement. A masterclass in virtuosity, rhythmic interplay and soul, the album is a historical milestone, setting the stage for one of jazz’s most celebrated trumpet players and one of the most influential artist-owned independent jazz labels in history. Beyond the horn, he was also one of the most highly sought-after composers of his era, with such masters as Max Roach, Andrew Hill and Jackie McLean having showcased his music.

Fresh off his recording debut with Jackie McLean, the 26-year-old trumpeter assembled a group of contemporaries, a 28-year-old Herbie Hancock and a 31-year-old Ron Carter, whose stints with Miles Davis’ second great quintet were coming to a close, a young, blossoming alto saxophonist named Gary Bartz, and drummer Joe Chambers, to push the boundaries of hard bop to new heights. The project uncovers one of Jazz’s most transformative eras, with each voice going on to transform generations of future musicians, both inside and outside the tradition, as voices like Coltrane, Ayler, and Shepp were transforming the avant-garde.

TRACKLIST:

1. Earl’s World

2. Peace with Myself

3. Right Now

4. Lil’s Paradise

5. Paper Man

6. Household of Saud

7. Repetition (Take 2)

ABOUT STRATA-EAST RECORDS:

Founded in 1970 by Charles Tolliver and Stanley Cowell, Strata-East Records has embodied and pioneered artistic freedom in its highest form, supporting the visions of the most influential musicians of its time. Strata-East’s commitment to artist-produced records and high production standards has earned it a revered place in jazz history. This mission continues through a partnership with Mack Avenue Music Group, ensuring the highest quality releases from its historic catalog.