Search - Sonny Stitt :: Now

Not just then, but now as well.

Samuel Chell | Kenosha,, WI United States | 03/11/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Sonny is not only predictably fluent but unexpectedly inspired on a Stitt-meets-another-rhythm-section recording (I no longer try to keep count). Perhaps it's the presence of pianist Hank Jones or an all-too-rare appearance on a prestigious label (Impulse), but Sonny sparkles on each of the selections on a varied and winning program of blues, (I Got) Rhythm tunes, standards, and sentimental favorites ("Estrellita," "My Mother's Eyes"--both receiving singing, moving readings by Sonny). For once, the ubiquitous and usually reliable drummer Osie Johnson seems to have trouble fitting into the groove--all the more testimony to the strength of the performances of the other three musicians. Give those insatiable, opportunistic borrowers of Western culture, the Japanese, credit for rescuing this valuable session from vinyl oblivion (though you may save a few bucks if you can locate a used LP version)."