"Tough Tenors" is a dynamic and invigorating jazz album featuring the electrifying collaboration between tenor sax titans Johnny Griffin and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis. Released on January 1, 2003, under the Original Jazz Classics label, this hard bop masterpiece is a testament to the fiery chemistry between these two legendary musicians.
The album spans six tracks, including standout pieces like "Tickle Toe," "Save Your Love For Me," and "Twins," each showcasing the virtuosic interplay between Griffin and Davis. With a runtime of just over 40 minutes, "Tough Tenors" delivers a powerful and concise exploration of bebop and hard bop styles, highlighting the raw energy and technical prowess of the quintet.
Recorded with a stellar lineup that includes Ronnie Matthews on piano, Tommy Flanagan on bass, and Albert "Tootie" Heath on drums, the album captures the essence of a live performance, with each track brimming with intensity and spontaneity. The chemistry between Griffin and Davis is palpable, as they trade solos and engage in thrilling call-and-response exchanges that define the hard bop genre.
Originally recorded in the early 1960s, this reissued import brings the timeless music of Johnny Griffin and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis to a new generation of jazz enthusiasts. "Tough Tenors" is a must-listen for fans of hard bop and bebop, offering a glimpse into the golden age of jazz and the enduring legacy of these two tenor sax greats.
Vinylscout