In Walked Sonny

Sonny Stitt's 'In Walked Sonny' is a masterful jazz album that embodies the essence of bebop, hard bop, and cool jazz. Released on 1 January 2004 by Universal Music AB, this 59-minute masterpiece showcases Stitt's incredible talent and versatility.

The album features a diverse range of tracks, including the soulful 'Blues March', the melancholic 'It Might As Well Be Spring', and the upbeat 'Birdlike'. Stitt's rendition of 'I Can't Get Started' is a standout, while 'Ronnie's A Dynamite Lady' and the title track 'In Walked Sonny' demonstrate his ability to craft infectious, memorable melodies. The inclusion of alternate takes for 'Birdlike' and 'Ronnie's A Dynamite Lady' offers a fascinating glimpse into Stitt's creative process.

With its blend of bebop, jazz, hard bop, cool jazz, and hints of acid jazz, 'In Walked Sonny' is a must-listen for fans of the genre. Sonny Stitt's saxophone playing is, as always, sublime, and his passion for the music shines through on every track. This album is a testament to Stitt's enduring legacy and a reminder of his status as one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time.

Sonny Stitt, born Edward Stitt in Boston and raised in Michigan, was a pioneering American jazz saxophonist renowned for his warm, distinctive tone and his mastery of the bebop and hard bop idioms. Nicknamed the "Lone Wolf" by jazz critic Dan Morgenstern, Stitt was known for his relentless touring and his preference for working with different musicians, rather than forming a permanent band. Initially, Stitt's style was compared to that of Charlie Parker, but he soon developed his own unique sound, particularly on the tenor saxophone. His extensive discography, featuring over 100 albums, showcases his versatility and innovation. Stitt's career spanned several decades, from establishing himself on the American jazz scene in the 1960s to making a significant impact on the UK jazz funk scene in the mid-1970s. He was also known for his sax duels with contemporaries like Dexter Gordon and Gene Ammons, further cementing his status as one of the finest bebop saxophonists of his era.