Sonny Stitt: Verve Ultimate Cool

Dive into the rich tapestry of jazz with "Sonny Stitt: Verve Ultimate Cool," a captivating collection released by Decca (UMO) in 2013. This album is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sonny Stitt, a saxophonist whose prowess spans across bebop, hard bop, cool jazz, and acid jazz. With a career boasting over 150 LPs, Stitt's move to Verve Records under the guidance of Norman Granz marked a significant peak in his illustrious journey.

"Verve Ultimate Cool" is a meticulously curated selection of timeless tracks, each a masterclass in jazz virtuosity. From the sultry "Ain't Misbehavin'" to the enchanting "Stars Fell On Alabama," and the iconic "The Way You Look Tonight," every song is a journey through the evolution of jazz. The album features a blend of hard bop, vocal, smooth, modal, and blue jazz, offering a comprehensive exploration of the genre.

The album's 53-minute runtime is packed with classics like "Easy To Love," "Lover Man," and "Try A Little Tenderness," each performance showcasing Stitt's unparalleled skill and musical depth. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Sonny Stitt: Verve Ultimate Cool" is an essential addition to your collection, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience.

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.