Sonny Stitt: Lone Wolf - The Roost Alternates - Sonny Stitt

Album Description

Dive into the world of jazz with "Sonny Stitt: Lone Wolf - The Roost Alternates," a captivating collection of alternate takes from Sonny Stitt's iconic sessions. Released on April 26, 2019, via Warner Classics UK, this album offers a unique glimpse into the creative process of one of jazz's most celebrated saxophonists. Spanning a diverse range of styles from bebop and cool jazz to hard bop and acid jazz, this 49-minute journey is a testament to Stitt's virtuosity on both tenor and alto saxophones.

The album features 12 tracks, each an alternate take of beloved standards and original compositions. From the swinging "Symphony Hall Swing" to the sultry "The Nearness of You," and the upbeat "Sweet Georgia Brown," every song showcases Stitt's impeccable technique and musicality. The inclusion of lesser-known gems like "Blues for Yard" and "Engos, the Bloos" adds an extra layer of intrigue for jazz enthusiasts.

"Lone Wolf: The Roost Alternates" is not just a compilation of alternate takes; it's a historical document that offers insight into Stitt's artistic evolution. The album is pressed on 180-gram black vinyl, featuring brand new artwork with photographs by Francis Wolff and insightful liner notes from jazz producer Michael Cuscuna. This release is a treasure trove for both longtime fans and newcomers to Sonny Stitt's music, providing a deeper understanding of his enduring legacy in the world of jazz.

April 26, 2019

℗ 2019 Warner Classics U.K, a Warner Music Group Company

About Sonny Stitt

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.