Stitt Plays Bird

Dive into the world of bebop with "Stitt Plays Bird," a classic jazz album by the legendary Sonny Stitt, released in 1964. This album is a testament to Stitt's unique approach to bebop, heavily influenced by the iconic Charlie Parker. Recorded in 1963 and released on Atlantic Records, this album features 11 remastered tracks that showcase Stitt's virtuosity and innovative style.

The album opens with "Now's the Time," a classic bebop tune that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Other standout tracks include "My Little Suede Shoes," "Parker's Mood," and "Confirmation," each offering a glimpse into Stitt's dynamic range and technical prowess. The album also features "Yardbird Suite" and "Ornithology," both of which pay homage to Parker's influence on Stitt's playing.

"Stitt Plays Bird" is a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast, offering a blend of hard bop, cool jazz, and acid jazz that is as timeless as it is captivating. The album's remastered sound quality ensures that every note and nuance of Stitt's playing is crystal clear, making it a joy to listen to from start to finish. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sonny Stitt or a newcomer to his music, "Stitt Plays Bird" is sure to impress with its energy, creativity, and sheer musicality.

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.