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SONNY STITT
Personal Appearance (Verve)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich
Personal Appearance has been on my wish list for many, many years. I first became interested in this recording when I read the following by one of my favorite jazz critics, Tom Piazza: "And in the wish department, keep an eye out for a Stitt album called Personal Appearance on Verve; recorded in the late 1950s and long out of print, this has Stitt in steaming-hot form on alto and tenor. If you like Sonny, and Verve decides to reissue this, run, don't walk, to the store and grab it." I have long searched used record stores, the internet, garage sales, etc. looking for this music. Imagine my surprise when I walked into my local record store and there it was, just released and remastered. Without hesitation, I coughed up my hard earned dollars and hurried all the way home. Once the CD started playing, I quickly realized this was one of those rare times when hype matched reality. Personal Appeance is that good!
Sonny Stitt plays both alto or tenor on 11 classic tunes. He is joined by a 21-year old Bobby Timmons on piano, Edgar Willis on base, and Kenny Dennis on drums. Simply put, on this recording, the formidable Stitt's playing has a beauty which is breath taking. Every solo is a source of wonder and delight to the listener. Stitt's originality of approach and execution breathes life into these timeless songs. His bandmates' playing is tasteful and well-integrated. All are duly inspired.
Personal Appearance occupies a special place in Stitt's extensive discography. It is one of his very best recordings from his early period (1940s & 1950's). In short, this incredible music belongs in every music lover's collection. This is one recording that continually improves with each listening. That, my friends, is a real bargain. Follw Piazza's advice and run to your local music store as Personal Appearance is a limited edition release. This genuinely moving performance captures the essence of great jazz.
Track List:
Easy To Love * Easy Living * Autumn In New York * You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To * For Some Friends * I Never Knew * Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea * East Of The Sun (West Of The Moon) * Original? * Avalon * Blues Greasy
© 2004 - Ron Saranich