Low Flame

"Low Flame" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Sonny Stitt, released in 1999 under the Prestige label. This collection, originally recorded in the 1960s, showcases Stitt's mastery across various jazz sub-genres, including bebop, hard bop, cool jazz, and acid jazz. The album spans a generous 76 minutes, featuring 14 tracks that highlight Stitt's virtuosic saxophone playing and his ability to blend different jazz styles seamlessly.

The album opens with the title track, "Low Flame," setting a sultry and inviting tone. Standout tracks like "Put Your Little Foot Right Out" and "Cynthia Sue" demonstrate Stitt's knack for upbeat, swinging jazz, while "Close Your Eyes" and "Misty" offer a more laid-back, cool jazz vibe. The album also includes the playful "Donald Duck" and the soulful "Soul Food," showcasing Stitt's versatility and range.

Sonny Stitt, known for his significant contributions to the jazz scene in the 1960s and his impact on the UK jazz funk scene in the 1970s, delivers a powerful performance throughout "Low Flame." The album is a testament to his enduring legacy and his ability to captivate audiences with his unique sound and style. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sonny Stitt or a newcomer to his music, "Low Flame" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the best of his jazz prowess.

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.