Moonlight In Vermont

"Moonlight In Vermont" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Sonny Stitt, released in 1977 under the Savoy label. This album is a testament to Stitt's mastery of both alto and tenor saxophone, showcasing his incredible skill and versatility. The record features a stellar lineup of musicians, including the iconic Tony Williams on drums, Reggie Workman on bass, and Barry Harris on piano, with Walter Davis contributing piano on one track. Recorded at Sound Ideas Studios in New York City, the album captures a live, energetic performance that highlights the spontaneous and improvisational nature of jazz.

The album spans a variety of jazz styles, including bebop, hard bop, cool jazz, and even touches of acid jazz, making it a rich and diverse listening experience. Standout tracks like "West 48th Street" and "Flight Cap Blues" demonstrate Stitt's virtuosic playing, while "It Might As Well Be Spring" offers a more melodic and introspective side. The title track, "Moonlight In Vermont," is a classic jazz standard that Stitt breathes new life into with his distinctive sound.

"Moonlight In Vermont" is not just a collection of songs but a snapshot of a pivotal moment in jazz history, featuring some of the genre's most influential musicians. The album's high production quality, with contributions from renowned engineers and producers, ensures that the music is presented in its finest form. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sonny Stitt or a newcomer to his music, this album is a essential addition to any jazz collection.

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.