"Recorded Live at Bubba's 1982" captures the final live performances of the legendary saxophonist Sonny Stitt, recorded at the iconic Bubba's Jazz Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in November 1982. This historic set features Stitt alongside fellow jazz greats Harry "Sweets" Edison and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, with a stellar rhythm section comprising Donn Mast on bass, Duffy Jackson on drums, and Eddie Higgins on piano. The album is a testament to Stitt's enduring mastery of bebop, hard bop, and cool jazz, showcasing his virtuosic playing on a selection of classic jazz compositions.
The six-track album opens with a lively rendition of "Oh, Lady Be Good," followed by the timeless standard "What's New." Stitt's signature sound is on full display in "There Is No Greater Love," while "Chef" offers a taste of his playful, improvisational style. The album also includes a dynamic performance of "I Can't Get Started with You" and a blazing rendition of "Lester Leaps In," a tribute to Stitt's mentor, Lester Young.
"Recorded Live at Bubba's 1982" is a fitting tribute to Sonny Stitt's extraordinary career and a thrilling snapshot of a bygone era in jazz history. The album's release in 2021, nearly four decades after the original recordings, serves as a homage to Stitt's legacy and a celebration of his enduring influence on the jazz world. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sonny Stitt or a newcomer to his music, this live album is an essential addition to any jazz collection.
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