Tough Tenor Favorites

"Tough Tenor Favorites" is a captivating collection of hard bop and bebop jazz, featuring the legendary Johnny Griffin on tenor saxophone. Originally released in 1962, this reissue on Reborn Recordings brings together seven classic tracks that showcase Griffin's dynamic and powerful playing style. The album kicks off with the upbeat "Bahia" and continues with standout performances on "Blue Lou" and "How Am I to Know," demonstrating Griffin's mastery of the genre.

This album is a testament to Johnny Griffin's prowess as a tenor saxophonist, often compared to the iconic 'Tough Tenors' outings he shared with Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis. The backing ensemble, featuring Wes Montgomery on guitar, Harold Mabern on piano, Arthur Harper on bass, and Jimmy Lovelace on drums, provides a solid and swinging foundation for Griffin's soaring solos. The album's 38-minute runtime is packed with energy and virtuosity, making it a essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

"Tough Tenor Favorites" is a celebration of Johnny Griffin's contributions to the jazz canon, offering a blend of timeless compositions and electrifying performances. Whether you're a longtime fan of hard bop or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to impress with its infectious rhythms and Griffin's unmistakable tenor sound.

Johnny Griffin, affectionately known as "the Little Giant," was a powerhouse of the jazz tenor saxophone, renowned for his swift and dynamic playing style. Born in Chicago in 1928, Griffin's career spanned over six decades, beginning in the mid-1940s and continuing until his passing in 2008. A pivotal figure in the hard bop movement, Griffin's discography is extensive, featuring collaborations with jazz legends such as Thelonious Monk, Art Blakey, and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis. His move to Europe in the 1960s, driven by personal and professional factors, led to a prolific period where he became a beloved figure in the European jazz scene, particularly in France and the Netherlands. Griffin's technical brilliance and harmonic sophistication made him one of the most respected and influential saxophonists of his generation, leaving an indelible mark on the world of jazz.