This album marks Sonny Rollins' first recording for the Impulse! label, at a time of experimentation and change in his career. Recorded in 1965, the album features a sextet including trumpeter Freddie Hubbard, alto saxophonist Phil Woods, and pianist McCoy Tyner, among others. Bob Thiele's production sought to capture a freer, more exploratory sound. Reception was mixed, but it has been revalued over time.
The album's sound is diverse, combining hard bop with elements of free jazz and Latin rhythms. Notable tracks include 'On Green Dolphin Street' and the extended 'Three Little Words', showcasing Rollins' creativity. The rhythm section, with Tyner and drummer Elvin Jones, provides intense and complex energy.
The legacy of 'Sonny Rollins on Impulse!' is that of an album reflecting Rollins' transition towards a more avant-garde style. It is considered an underrated work that anticipates his later explorations. Its impact lies in its boldness and the quality of the collective improvisations.