The Sensual Sound Of Sonny Stitt With The Ralph Burns Strings

Dive into the rich, velvety sounds of Sonny Stitt's "The Sensual Sound Of Sonny Stitt With The Ralph Burns Strings," a timeless jazz album that seamlessly blends bebop, hard bop, cool jazz, and acid jazz elements. Originally recorded in 1961, this reissue, released on Verve Reissues in January 1998, offers a captivating journey through 10 meticulously crafted tracks that showcase Stitt's virtuosity on the alto saxophone.

The album opens with the classic "Try A Little Tenderness," followed by a series of enchanting compositions that highlight Stitt's impeccable technique and soulful expression. Each track, from the nostalgic "Back To My Home Town" to the romantic "I Love You," is a testament to Stitt's ability to convey deep emotion and musicality. The collaboration with Ralph Burns Strings adds a lush, orchestral dimension to Stitt's playing, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both intimate and expansive.

With a running time of just over 33 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful exploration of Stitt's artistry. Whether you're a longtime fan of jazz or a newcomer to the genre, "The Sensual Sound Of Sonny Stitt With The Ralph Burns Strings" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience. The album's enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to a bygone era of elegant sophistication and musical brilliance.

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.