Made for Each Other

"Made for Each Other" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Sonny Stitt, released in 1997 on Delmark Records. This collection of tracks offers a rich tapestry of jazz styles, spanning bebop, hard bop, cool jazz, and even acid jazz, showcasing Stitt's versatility and mastery of the saxophone. Recorded over a single session in 1956, the album features a powerhouse lineup that includes some of the most notable names in jazz, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

The album kicks off with "Samba de Orfeo," setting the tone with its infectious rhythm and Stitt's signature saxophone sound. "Funny" and its alternate take offer a glimpse into Stitt's playful side, while "Glory of Love" and "The Very Thought of You" showcase his ability to infuse classic standards with his unique style. "Blues for J.J." is a standout track, highlighting Stitt's blues roots and his ability to blend different musical influences seamlessly.

"Night Has a Thousand Eyes" and its alternate take are particularly noteworthy, featuring a rollicking, up-tempo arrangement that showcases Stitt's speed and agility on the saxophone. The album concludes with "Honey," a sweet and sultry number that provides a perfect bookend to the collection.

Throughout the album, Stitt's virtuosity is on full display, as he navigates complex melodies and improvisations with ease. His playing is both technical and expressive, making "Made for Each Other" a standout album in his discography. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sonny Stitt or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to impress with its high-energy performances and timeless jazz compositions.

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.