Sonny Criss - This Is Criss! (2014) [Hi-Res]

„Along with tenor saxophonist Harold Land, altoist Sonny Criss qualifies as one of the most overlooked giants of West Coast jazz. His sound -- like most alto players of the bebop and hard bop days -- was heavily influenced by Charlie Parker, but Criss still managed to forge an original style featuring a very original melodic bent with loads of bluesy underpinnings.

The goods can be optimally previewed on this great Prestige date from 1966. Backed by a trio consisting of pianist Walter Davis, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Alan Dawson, Criss makes fine work of such rare-bird covers as 'Sunrise, Sunset' and 'When Sunny Gets Blue.' There are also some fine originals here, including Criss' own 'Steve's Blues' and Davis' classic 'Greasy.' A perfect start to your Criss collection.“ (Stephen Cook)

Sonny Criss, alto saxophone
Walter Davis, piano
Paul Chambers, upright bass
Alan Dawson, drums

Recorded at the Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey on October 21, 1966
Produced by Don Schlitten

Digitally remastered