[1][2][3] One side of the original LP featured performances by Rollins with a big band including Nat Adderley, Reunald Jones, Ernie Royal, Clark Terry, Billy Byers, Jimmy Cleveland, Frank Rehak, Don Butterfield, Dick Katz, René Thomas and Roy Haynes, which was under the musical direction of Ernie Wilkins, and the other side had three tracks by Rollins' trio with Henry Grimes and Specs Wright and an unaccompanied solo performance.

The Allmusic review by Ken Dryden states: "Big Brass is an appropriate name for the large ensemble arranged and conducted by Ernie Wilkins that accompanies the huge sound of Sonny Rollins.

The energy within the leader's gospel-flavored shout 'Grand Street' is considerable, while a swinging but no less powerful version of George & Ira Gershwin's 'Who Cares' features a choice solo by guitarist Rene Thomas.

Also added to this compilation are trio recordings with bassist Henry Grimes and drummer Specs Wright, including a brilliant leisurely stroll through 'Manhattan,' along with Rollins' tour de force unaccompanied tenor sax on 'Body and Soul'".

[4] Scott Yanow said "Rollins excels in both of these settings, making this an easily recommended set".