Two of a Kind: Johnny Griffin & Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis

Album Description

Johnny Griffin's magnificent collaboration with Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, 'Two of a Kind: Johnny Griffin & Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis', is a masterclass in jazz excellence. Released on 20 July 2022 via Moonhoney Records, this extensive 2-hour album is a treasure trove of hard bop, jazz, and bebop gems.

The tracklist is a veritable who's who of jazz classics, with Griffin and Davis putting their unique spin on timeless tunes such as 'Tickle Toe', 'Epistrophy', and 'Well, You Needn't'. The duo's chemistry is palpable as they navigate the complexities of 'I Mean You' and 'Good Bait', before launching into the infectious rhythms of 'Walkin'' and 'Blues up and Down'.

With a career-spanning array of tracks, including 'Camp Meeting', 'Blue Lou', and 'Star Eyes', Johnny Griffin showcases his incredible range and technical prowess. The album's latter half delves into the vibrant world of Latin jazz, with 'Guanco Lament', 'Tin Tin Deo', and 'Jazz-A-Samba' demonstrating the pair's ability to blend styles seamlessly.

Throughout 'Two of a Kind', Johnny Griffin and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis engage in a captivating dialogue of saxophones, their improvisational exchanges a testament to their status as two of the most revered figures in jazz. This album is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, offering a profound exploration of the genre's rich heritage.

July 20, 2022

2022 Moonhoney Records

About Johnny Griffin

Johnny Griffin, affectionately known as "the Little Giant," was a powerhouse of jazz, renowned for his formidable technique and fiery performances. Born in Chicago in 1928, Griffin's career spanned over six decades, beginning in the mid-1940s and continuing until his passing in 2008. A pioneer of hard bop, Griffin's music is characterized by its complexity and harmonic richness, showcasing his remarkable ability to navigate intricate melodies with ease. His discography is vast, featuring notable collaborations with legends like Thelonious Monk, Art Blakey, and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis. Griffin's influence extended beyond the United States; after relocating to Europe in the 1960s, he became a beloved figure in the European jazz scene, particularly as a member of the Kenny Clarke/Francy Boland Big Band. Griffin's legacy is celebrated not just for his technical prowess but also for the warmth and blues foundation that underpinned his playing, making him one of the all-time great tenor saxophonists.