When We Were in Paris, Vol. 8: Lucky Thompson & Sammy Price

Lucky Thompson was a pioneering American jazz saxophonist, renowned for his mastery of both tenor and soprano saxophones. Born Eli Thompson, he earned the nickname 'Lucky' and made significant contributions to the jazz scene, blending elements of swing and bebop with harmonically sophisticated playing. Thompson was ahead of his time in embracing the soprano saxophone, predating John Coltrane's popularisation of the instrument. His career saw him perform with jazz legends such as Miles Davis and Stan Kenton, but it also took a tumultuous turn, leading him to Europe where he joined a community of exiled jazz greats like Don Byas and Dexter Gordon. Thompson's music is a testament to his versatility, offering a sound that is both timeless and modern, making him a standout figure in the world of hard bop and bebop.