Sonny Stitt Blows The Blues 180g 45rpm 2LP

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Mastered by George Marino at Sterling Sound & Cut from the Absolute Original Analog Master Tapes!
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Sonny Stitt recorded in an impressive variety of contexts, ranging from the octet format featured in Jimmy Giuffre's arrangements to informal sessions with such swing era prototypes as Roy Eldridge, with whom he was teamed for Only the Blues.

It was in the latter set that Sonny's superb feeling for the 12-bar blues form came most conspicuously into focus. On the present sides, Sonny again reverts to the blues, this time in an even simpler setting composed of 3 musicians who, like Sonny, are essentially products of the modern jazz scene, but have firm roots in the jazz tradition of which the blues has remained a perpetual, unquenchable guiding light.

Sonny plays alto on all tracks. Five of the eight numbers are ad lib blues with a nominal thematic framework to open and close; the others are Isham Jones' "Blue Prelude," which somebody suggested on the date - Sonny had never played it before; "Frankie and Johnny," probably the oldest blues theme now in general use (it originated in the early 19th century), and the old pop song "Birth of the Blues." Highlights among the originals are "Home Free," a minor key blues, and "Hymnal," a "sanctified" blues based on an old hymn. Sonny is also at his earthiest and most moving in the very slow blues in G, "Morning After," that closes the set.

...these are all truly classic Verve titles that you simply don't want to miss...most importantly, the sound of these reissues is nothing short of astounding. Particularly the early Billie and Ella mono records are incredible treasures of sonic beauty. I'd definitely ask Santa for the whole set, or, if you want to cherry pick, the most classic titles. Whatever you decide, you owe yourself at least a half dozen!