Griff & Lock

"Griff & Lock" is a thrilling journey into the world of hard bop and bebop, featuring the dynamic duo of Johnny Griffin and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis. Originally released in 1960, this digitally remastered 2018 edition brings fresh clarity to the fiery interplay between these two tenor saxophone titans. The album, released on AVID Jazz, captures the raw energy and virtuosity of Griffin and Davis in a live setting, backed by some of the most exciting drumming of the era.

The six-track album kicks off with "The Last Train to Overbrook," setting the stage for a high-energy performance that continues with tracks like "Hey Lock!" and "Midnight at Minton's." Each song showcases the incredible technical skill and improvisational prowess of Griffin and Davis, making "Griff & Lock" a standout in the jazz canon. The album also includes a beautiful rendition of "I'll Remember April," adding a touch of melodic grace to the collection.

This album is a testament to the enduring legacy of Johnny Griffin and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a chance to experience the exhilarating sounds of live jazz at its finest. With a total runtime of just under 40 minutes, "Griff & Lock" is a concise yet powerful showcase of two masters at the height of their powers.

Johnny Griffin, affectionately known as "the Little Giant," was a powerhouse of the jazz tenor saxophone, renowned for his swift and dynamic playing style. Born in Chicago in 1928, Griffin's career spanned over six decades, beginning in the mid-1940s and continuing until his passing in 2008. A pivotal figure in the hard bop movement, Griffin's discography is extensive, featuring collaborations with jazz legends such as Thelonious Monk, Art Blakey, and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis. His move to Europe in the 1960s, driven by personal and professional factors, led to a prolific period where he became a beloved figure in the European jazz scene, particularly in France and the Netherlands. Griffin's technical brilliance and harmonic sophistication made him one of the most respected and influential saxophonists of his generation, leaving an indelible mark on the world of jazz.