Stitt's Bits: The Bebop Recordings, 1949-1952

Album Description

"Stitt's Bits: The Bebop Recordings, 1949-1952" is a comprehensive collection of Sonny Stitt's early recordings for Prestige Records, spanning a pivotal four-year period in the evolution of bebop. This three-CD box set offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of jazz's golden era, featuring 76 tracks that showcase Stitt's virtuosic tenor saxophone playing and his significant contributions to the bebop and hard bop genres.

Sonny Stitt, known for his warm tone and fluid technique, was one of the most prolific and influential saxophonists of his generation. This collection captures him at the height of his powers, collaborating with some of the era's most talented musicians, including Bud Powell, Max Roach, and Gene Ammons. The album is a treasure trove of classic tracks, including alternate takes and rare performances that highlight Stitt's versatility and innovation.

From up-tempo bebop stanzas to shivering, captivating ballads, "Stitt's Bits" offers a diverse range of styles and moods. The album includes iconic songs like "All God's Chillun Got Rhythm," "Sonny Side," and "Bud's Blues," as well as lesser-known gems that demonstrate Stitt's mastery of the saxophone. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection is an essential addition to any music library, offering a deep dive into the rich history and enduring legacy of Sonny Stitt and the bebop movement.

1 januari 2006

This Compilation ℗ 2006 Concord Music Group, Inc.

About Sonny Stitt

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.