My Main Man

"My Main Man" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary saxophonist Sonny Stitt, released in 1964. This album is a testament to Stitt's virtuosity and his deep connection to the bebop and hard bop traditions. Recorded in Chicago, the album features the stellar trombonist Bennie Green, creating a powerful front line that drives the music forward with energy and finesse.

The album opens with "Flame and Frost," a composition by Esmond Edwards that sets the stage for the dynamic interplay between Stitt and Green. Tracks like "Let's Play Chess" and "Double Dip" showcase the musicians' improvisational skills and their ability to weave complex melodies with ease. "Our Day Will Come," a cover of the popular song by Mort Garson and Bob Hilliard, adds a touch of familiarity, while "The Night Has A Thousand Eyes" and "Broilin'" highlight the album's cool jazz and acid jazz influences.

The backing band, featuring Bobby Buster on organ, Joe Diorio on guitar, and Dorel Anderson on drums, provides a solid foundation that allows Stitt and Green to soar. The album's seven tracks, clocking in at just over 35 minutes, are packed with memorable moments and standout performances.

"My Main Man" is a quintessential jazz album that captures the spirit of the 1960s jazz scene. With its blend of bebop, hard bop, and cool jazz elements, it offers a rich listening experience that will appeal to both jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. The album's enduring appeal is a testament to the timeless talent of Sonny Stitt and his collaborators.

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.