Sonny Rollins and Max Roach are discussed in this bonus episode. They analyze Max Roach's drum solo and Joshua Redmond's saxophone solo. They also explore Sonny Rollins' impressive saxophone solos and use of ensemble dynamics. In addition, they discuss the album 'Sunny Side Up' and the tenor saxophone battle between Sonny Rollins and Sonny Stit. Sonny Rollins' musical prowess and playful style are highlighted, as well as their admiration for Max Roach's drumming skills.
Sonny Rollins showcased his technical prowess and rhythmic creativity in his solos, while Max Roach's drumming on Saxophone Colossus demonstrated his distinctive use of snares and hi-hat to create a swing feel.
Rollins underwent significant shifts in his career, exploring different settings such as playing in a trio without any chords, escaping the traditional quartet format with the album 'The Bridge,' and engaging in an improvisational saxophone battle with Sonny Stitt on 'Sunny Side Up.'
Deep dives
Highlighting Sunny Rollins' Solos
In this bonus episode, the host focuses on Sunny Rollins, one of the famous soloists from a previous episode. The host shares some more thoughts on Rollins and showcases a few of his solos. One solo from the 1956 album 'Saxophone Colossus' is highlighted, featuring both the saxophonist and drummer Max Roach. The host describes Roach's drum solo and the impact of his use of snares and hi-hat during the performance. The swing feel of the drum solo transitions perfectly into Rollins' swing tenor sax solo. Another notable solo discussed is from a live recording by Joshua Redmond, showcasing his playful interpretation of Rollins' motif. The host praises Redmond's dexterity and ability to communicate with the audience. Lastly, the host mentions the blues track 'Blue Seven' from the album 'Saxophone Colossus,' focusing on Rollins' opening chorus and the interaction between pianist Tommy Flanagan and the saxophonist during Rollins' solo.
Exploring Sonny Rollins' Trio and Other Albums
The host discusses a significant shift in Rollins' career, where he began playing in a trio setting without any chords. He highlights Rollins' live recording at the Village Vanguard, featuring bassist Wilbur Ware and drummer Elvin Jones, as a prominent example of this trio exploration. The host also mentions Rollins' album 'The Bridge,' which features guitarist Jim Hall and exhibits a different sound and approach by escaping the traditional quartet format. Additionally, the host mentions Rollins' participation in the album 'Sunny Side Up,' where he engages in an improvisational saxophone battle with Sonny Stitt. Finally, the host concludes by emphasizing Rollins' technical prowess, rhythmic creativity, and non-stop energy in his solos.
Closing Remarks and Call to Support
In the closing remarks, the host expresses their admiration for Sonny Rollins and Max Roach and their influential contributions to jazz music. Expressing gratitude to the listeners, the host mentions that 'Strong Songs' is a listener-supported show and encourages people to become patrons. In doing so, listeners will gain early access to the upcoming Season 6 and support the production of the show.
(Originally recorded in May 2022) There's always more to say about Sonny Rollins, so Kirk shares a few of his other favorite Sonny moments, along with some additional love for Max Roach's drumming on Saxophone Colossus.
REFERENCED:
"St. Thomas" and "Blue 7" by Sonny Rollins from Saxophone Colossus, 1956
"St. Thomas" as performed by Joshua Redman on Spirit of the Moment: Live at the Village Vanguard, 1992
"Four" by Miles Davis performed by Sonny Rollins on A Night at the Village Vanguard, 1957
"Without a Song" by Vincent Youmans recorded by Sonny Rollins on The Bridge, 1962
"I Know That You Know" also by Vincent Youmans from Sonny Side Up, 1959