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.
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