If you ever needed proof that altoist Cannonball Adderley deserves to be considered one of the absolute masters of the jazz idiom, look no further than Things Are Getting Better, which provides ample evidence for his canonical stature. On this date, Adderley teams up with Modern Jazz Quartet co-founder and vibraphonist extraordinaire Milt Jackson to create a lively, varied set of sonic atmospheres. They are backed by the all-star ensemble of Wynton Kelly on piano, Percy Heath on bass, and the legendary Art Blakey on drums. The standout track, "Sounds for Sid", finds Adderley grooving hard with an R&B flavor, flashing his virtuosic instrumental chops, and demonstrating in the process why this cut stands as one of the very best representations of Adderley's early work. Essential listening for all manner of jazz enthusiasts, Things Are Getting Better has something for everyone and deserves a place in every self-respecting jazz fan's vinyl collection.