Dive into the rich, soulful sounds of Gene Ammons with his captivating album "Hittin' The Jug," released on November 20, 2015, under the ZYX Music label. This collection of jazz masterpieces spans a variety of sub-genres, including hard bop, soul jazz, bebop, acid jazz, and cool jazz, offering a comprehensive journey through the versatility and genius of Ammons' tenor saxophone prowess.
The album kicks off with the title track, "Hittin' The Jug," a composition that first appeared on Ammons' historic 1960 album "Boss Tenor." This track, along with others like "Close Your Eyes" and "My Romance," showcases Ammons' ability to blend sultry, sinuous melodies with intricate improvisations. The album features a well-balanced quartet, with each member contributing to the rich tapestry of sound, particularly Gene Ammons on tenor sax, Tommy Flanagan on piano, Doug Watkins on bass, Art Taylor on drums, and Ray Barretto on congas.
"Hittin' The Jug" is not just a collection of songs but a testament to Gene Ammons' enduring legacy in the jazz world. The album's duration of 35 minutes is packed with timeless classics like "Canadian Sunset," "Blue Ammons," and "Confirmation," each track a testament to Ammons' unique style and influence. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the genius of Gene Ammons and his contributions to the world of jazz.