Partners

"Partners," released in July 1978 on the Catalyst Jazz label, is a captivating collaboration between two titans of the jazz saxophone, Sonny Stitt and Red Holloway. This album is a testament to the enduring partnership between these two legendary musicians, who had been performing together since 1967. Recorded at Sage & Sound Studios in Hollywood, CA, on June 29, 1977, the album showcases their exceptional chemistry and mastery of the genre.

The six-track album spans a variety of jazz styles, including bebop, hard bop, and cool jazz, offering a rich and diverse listening experience. The album opens with the title track "Partners," setting the stage for a series of dynamic performances. "Lazy Moments" provides a more relaxed vibe, while "Stitt's It" and "Evening In Madrid" highlight the duo's improvisational skills and technical prowess. "Bee Dee" adds a touch of acid jazz, and the album concludes with a beautiful ballad medley of "Old Folks" and "Yesterdays," demonstrating the duo's versatility and depth.

With a total runtime of just under 40 minutes, "Partners" is a concise yet powerful collection of jazz performances that highlight the unique voices of Sonny Stitt and Red Holloway. Whether you're a longtime fan of jazz or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the artistry of these two remarkable musicians.

Sonny Stitt, born Edward Stitt in Boston and raised in Michigan, was a pioneering American jazz saxophonist renowned for his warm, distinctive tone and his mastery of the bebop and hard bop idioms. Nicknamed the "Lone Wolf" by jazz critic Dan Morgenstern, Stitt was known for his relentless touring and his preference for working with different musicians, rather than forming a permanent band. Initially, Stitt's style was compared to that of Charlie Parker, but he soon developed his own unique sound, particularly on the tenor saxophone. His extensive discography, featuring over 100 albums, showcases his versatility and innovation. Stitt's career spanned several decades, from establishing himself on the American jazz scene in the 1960s to making a significant impact on the UK jazz funk scene in the mid-1970s. He was also known for his sax duels with contemporaries like Dexter Gordon and Gene Ammons, further cementing his status as one of the finest bebop saxophonists of his era.