Description

Sonny Criss – Intermission Riff – Cassette

Sonny Criss’s Intermission Riff, released in 1971, is a dynamic hard bop and soul jazz album that captures alto saxophonist Sonny Criss at his expressive best. Known for his powerful tone and bluesy style, Criss was an accomplished saxophonist in the Los Angeles jazz scene, celebrated for his ability to convey deep emotion through his instrument. Intermission Riff blends soulful grooves, blues influences, and Criss’s fluid bebop phrasing, creating an album that is both lively and emotionally resonant.

With Horace Tapscott on piano, Larry Gales on bass, and Jimmie Smith on drums, the rhythm section provides a tight, swinging foundation that complements Criss’s soulful alto sax playing, making this album a must-listen for fans of straight-ahead jazz and soul-infused bop.

Intermission Riff is grounded in hard bop but infused with elements of soul jazz and blues, capturing the spirit of jazz’s more accessible side while still maintaining complexity and sophistication. Criss’s alto saxophone tone is bold and rich, with a vibrant, almost vocal quality that conveys a wide range of emotions. His phrasing combines bebop intricacy with a strong blues influence, which gives the album a grounded, relatable feel. Tapscott’s piano complements Criss beautifully, offering both rhythmic support and melodic counterpoints, while Gales and Smith create a propulsive rhythm that keeps each track lively and engaging.

The album’s title track, “Intermission Riff,” sets an upbeat, joyful tone, and the other selections, including jazz standards and bluesy compositions, explore themes of joy, resilience, and introspection. Criss’s ability to balance technical prowess with heartfelt expression gives the album a timeless appeal, drawing in listeners with its combination of energy and emotional depth.

Notable Tracks on Intermission Riff

‘Intermission Riff’ – The title track is a high-energy opener that features Criss’s dynamic phrasing and bluesy edge, setting a lively mood. The piece’s catchy, riff-driven structure showcases the band’s cohesive interplay.

While Intermission Riff may not be as widely known as some other hard bop albums of the era, it is cherished by jazz fans for its authenticity, expressiveness, and Criss’s remarkable performance. Criss’s approach to the alto saxophone was highly respected among jazz musicians and fans alike, and this album exemplifies his ability to fuse bluesy warmth with bebop agility. His interpretations on Intermission Riff demonstrate his skill not only as a technical player but as an artist deeply attuned to the emotional core of jazz.

For those interested in hard bop, West Coast jazz, or soulful saxophone work, Intermission Riff is an essential listen, showcasing Sonny Criss’s musical range and his lasting impact on jazz. The album serves as both a testament to Criss’s exceptional talent and a reminder of the soulful, blues-infused side of hard bop that continues to resonate with jazz lovers today.

Pablo Records

Song List
1. Intermission Riff
2. How High The Moon
3. Perdido
4. Body And Soul
5. High Jump