Search - Sonny Stitt, Harry "Sweets" Edison, Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis :: Sonny Sweets & Jaws: Live at Bubbas

Heavenly Session?

Samuel Chell | Kenosha,, WI United States | 01/25/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Sonny Stitt died July 22, 1982, and according to the liner notes "Sonny, Sweets, and Jaws" was recorded live at Bubba's on July 23, 1982. But since Bubba's is in Fort Lauderdale, the immediate context could not have been celestial.In any case, this is most likely Sonny's last "live" recording. And since I'm a Stitt collector and have his last studio session ("The Last Sessions," recorded June 19, 1982), I thought it best to go for completeness. But this album is better than the studio session, good enough to be worthy of a place on any jazz collector's shelf. Sonny is clearly inspired by the "competition," Sweets sounds better than ever, Jaws is his usual indomitable self, and the rhythm section swings exceptionally hard all the way to the finish line (how I wish Duffy Jackson had been around to record with Oscar Peterson in the 60's).Moreover, the thoughtful programming assures the listener's interest, no matter how many times he's heard these guys use the same licks. First, an ensemble jam (but very organized) on "Lady Be Good" changes, then a Stitt ballad followed by a Sweets swinger followed by a Jaws blues and ballad. And finally bringing the proceedings to a spirited close, another ensemble jam, this time on "I Got Rhythm" changes ("Lester Leaps In").In short, a vibrant and victorious valedictory by three of the most distinctive, forceful voices in the history of jazz."