"Crunch Time" is a soulful and dynamic jazz album released by the legendary saxophonist Hank Crawford, in collaboration with the renowned organist Jimmy McGriff. This 1999 release on the Milestone label is a testament to the enduring chemistry between Crawford and McGriff, blending genres like soul jazz, jazz blues, jazz funk, and hard bop into a cohesive and captivating musical experience.
The album opens with "Bow Legs," a laid-back track that showcases Crawford's smooth and soulful saxophone playing. It's followed by "It's All Good," a groovy number that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The duo's rendition of "Don't Deceive Me (Please Don't Go)" is a standout, featuring McGriff's expressive organ work and Crawford's emotive saxophone lines. "Sandu" and "Crunch Time" highlight the album's hard bop influences, with tight rhythms and intricate solos.
"Crunch Time" also includes a soulful cover of Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On," demonstrating the artists' ability to infuse classic songs with their unique style. The album concludes with "The Preacher," a lively and spirited track that leaves the listener wanting more.
With a duration of just over 52 minutes, "Crunch Time" is a concise yet impactful album that captures the essence of Crawford and McGriff's collaborative genius. The album's tracklist is a mix of original compositions and well-chosen covers, all delivered with the duo's signature blend of soul, blues, and jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan of Hank Crawford and Jimmy McGriff or a newcomer to their music, "Crunch Time" is an album that deserves a spot in your collection.
Hank Crawford, born Bennie Ross Crawford Jr., was a versatile American musician renowned for his mastery of the alto saxophone, piano, and his skills as an arranger and songwriter. Hailing from Memphis, Crawford's career spanned multiple genres, including R&B, hard bop, jazz-funk, and soul jazz. He gained early fame as a member of Ray Charles' band in the late 1950s, where he served as the musical director, contributing to the iconic sound of the group. Crawford's warm and incisive tone, reminiscent of Charlie Parker, combined with his storytelling lyricism, made his performances both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. After his tenure with Ray Charles, Crawford embarked on a successful solo career, releasing numerous acclaimed albums under labels such as Atlantic, CTI, and Milestone. His discography is a testament to his enduring talent and influence in the jazz world.
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