Sonny Stitt - Plays Jimmy Giuffre Arrangements (Verve, MGV-8309)

Sonny Stitt - Plays Jimmy Giuffre Arrangements (Verve, MGV-8309)

The idea of this record, as stated by Jimmy Giuffre, the arranger, was to catch the complex, many-noted playing of Sonny with the help of brass. The record was done in one long session, Stitt chose themes he would like to play, some standarts, some tunes, written by himself or Giuffre.

As for me, some of his solos are definitely captivating, he manages to sound new, still carrying best Parker imitation. 

Originally issued on Verve MGV-8309, with trumpet label.

The players are:
Sonny Stitt (alto and tenor saxophones)
Jack Sheldon (trumpet)
Lee Katzman (trumpet)
Frank Rozolino (trombone)
Al Pollen (tuba)
Jimmie Rowles (piano)
Buddy Clark (bass)
Lawrence Marable (drums)

Also, Jimmy Giuffre joins the team on some spontaneous blues.

The tunes are:
A1. New York Blues
A2. Giuff
A3. Laura
A4. Sonny Boy
A5. Down Country
B1. Singin' In The Rain
B2. Uptown
B3. Downtown
B4. I Let A Song Go Out Of My Heart
B5. Two For Timbucktu

The one I prepared is an old Charlie Parker favorite, called Laura. Stitt's version gets a bit away from the melody, but provides some great solos.