Following a long sabbatical after battling addiction, Xanadu Records producer Don Schlittlen welcomed FRANK BUTLER back to the scene by offering the veteran drummer his long-overdue debut as a leader, which resulted in 1977's THE STEPPER. This stellar session, featuring Xanadu house pianist Dolo Coker, bassist Monty Budwig and tenor saxophonist Jack Montrose (the West Coast Montrose, not to be confused with the East Coast tenor player J.R. Montrose), reestablished Butler's reputation and added immeasurably to his recorded legacy. The first reissue since the original LP release, this deluxe CD contains original liner notes by Pete Welding with new essays by Bill Milkowski and producer Zev Feldman, plus extra photos and session notes. Original session Produced & Directed by Don Schlitten. Album design & cover photo by Don Schlitten. Papa Jo Jones once called Butler the greatest drummer in the world!
Personnel: Jack Montrose tenor saxophone Dolo Coker piano Monty Budwig bass Frank Butler drums
Digitally remastered from the original Deluxe packaging with a 16-page booklet with original liner notes and new essay by jazz journalist Bill Milkowski plus restored artwork, photos and session notes. Supervised by original producer and Xanadu label head Don Schlitten, First US reissue since the original LP release in 1977.