Sonny Stitt - The Complete Roost Sonny Stitt Studio Sessions (2001) [9CD Box Set] [EAC-FLAC]
Under the watchful eye of famed producer Michael Cuscuna, this nine-CD set serves as a compilation of Stitt's 1950s and 1960s Roost LPs. This release also features a 28-page booklet consisting of comprehensively annotated liners. Moreover, the record label does its best to convey the artistic element via a series of black-and-white photos of Stitt and his sidemen amid anecdotes by many of the late saxophonist's affiliates. Interestingly enough, seven of the original LPs did not list personnel. In some instances, guesses were made, although most of these tracks are well-documented, thanks to the producer's diligence and painstaking research. Artists such as drummer Roy Haynes, bassist/composer Charles Mingus, and pianist Harold Maber represent but a few of Stitt's accompanists. Overall, these works signify a hearty glimpse of the saxophonist's artistry. Whether engaging in a small ensemble or alongside Latin all-stars such as percussionists Willie Bobo and Carlos "Patato" Valdes, Stitt's impeccable rhythmic sensibilities shine forth in radiant aplomb. Furthermore, the listener will have the opportunity to hear a young and then relatively unknown pianist, Chick Corea, performing with the abovementioned percussionists and trumpeter Thad Jones on the 1963 date titled "Stitt Goes Latin." The folks at Mosaic Records even go so far as to provide factoids such as originally misspelled song titles, gaps in master numbers, and other inconsistencies. Nonetheless, this is a wonderfully assembled package and a great starting point for those who are unfamiliar with Stitt's extensive musical legacy