Gene Ammons - Three Classic Albums Plus

Review by Eliud Kabamanya

Gene Ammons' Three Classic Albums Plus is a collection that any jazz enthusiast will appreciate. The album features three of his classic albums - Boss Tenor, Up Tight!, and Soul Summit - along with additional tracks that showcase Ammons' incredible talent as a saxophonist.

The album opens with Boss Tenor, which is considered one of Ammons' most iconic albums. The tracks on this album are characterized by Ammons' soulful and bluesy playing style, which is complemented by the powerful horn arrangements. The album also features some of the best jazz musicians of the time, including Tommy Flanagan, Doug Watkins, and Art Taylor.

Up Tight! is another standout album in this collection. This album sees Ammons exploring his funkier side, with tracks like "Ca' Purange" and "Jungle Strut" featuring groovy basslines and infectious rhythms. The album also features some of Ammons' most expressive playing, particularly on the ballads "Why Was I Born?" and "Angel Eyes."

The final album in this collection, Soul Summit, features Ammons alongside fellow saxophonist Sonny Stitt, as well as other jazz luminaries like Jack McDuff and Roy Haynes. The album is a tour-de-force of hard-bop and soul-jazz, with Ammons and Stitt engaging in some thrilling saxophone duels.

Summary by Eliud Kabamanya

Three Classic Albums Plus is a must-have for any jazz fan. The album showcases Gene Ammons at his best and offers a great introduction to his music for those who are new to his work. The additional tracks also provide some rare insights into Ammons' musical genius, making this a truly essential collection.