An overlooked gem
nadezhda | Washington, DC United States | 05/09/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Sonny Criss had a sound that grabs you. Rich, elegant, bluesy, effortless, all rolled into one. This collection has one standard after another, but none is ordinary. One reviewer had it right -- they're all fresh, and they stand up to listening, and listening, and listening. The rhythm sections are varied and terrific, but there's no question who's the leader. There's a special Sonny Criss feeling that runs throughout. He's more "overlooked" than "underrated." An "essential" for anyone who loves sax."
A rare gem!
J. Wright | United States | 10/16/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This 2-disc set from Blue Note showcases an very underated artist. Recorded over six days in 1956 these sessions sound fresh and showcase Criss's big alto sound on every cut. You can hear touches of bird and other big horn players in his bluesy style, but his rich voice seems to come from his great command (smooth, fleet & big tone) he has. Supporting players Kenny Drew, Sonny Clack, Larry Bunker, Barney Kessel never turn a wrong step. It's a shame Sonny Criss is not more widely known.
These recordings have wonderful full (mono) sound throughout."
Criminally Underappreciated West Coast Alto Man
Unlucky Frank | Lalaland, CA United States | 11/12/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Underrecorded, undervalued, and underappreciated. Sonny Criss was a West Coast alto man that never garnered the recognition and acclaim that was his due. His life ended sadly in 1977.
He was not considered an innovator in Bebop and was a study of Charlie Parker. In my humble opinion, Criss was just as nimble as Bird. Sonny played with Bird during his extended stay in Los Angeles. Contrary to the popular urban legend that no one showed up when Diz, Bird, and Bebop Invaded the West, Sonny Criss tells a different story, "I don't recall it that way because the club(Billy Berg's) was packed every night." Sonny's tone was as unique as it was bright, sharp, crisp, brilliant, and downright perfect. Can Bebop sound romantic? To hear these recordings the answer is a resounding, "YES." Man, this cat could SWING! And his Blue Jazz balladry was also quite STUNNING!
When I pull this out of my collection and play these remarkable Imperial sides, I always say to myself, "this man is one of the reasons why I love jazz."
Surely, this is one of my Desert Island Selections.
No jazz collection is complete without this Double CD. One of the GREATEST archival recordings BLUE NOTE has to offer. A MUST OWN!
SONNY CRISS LIVES!
Enjoy."
Track Listings (18) - Disc #1