Jazz Articles about Johnny Griffin

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Johnny Griffin: Live/Autumn Leaves

by John Sharpe
April 1, 1998

Back in the heyday of bop, Griffin earned a reputation as “the world's fastest saxophonist." Judging by the breakneck tempo he sets on this CD's title cut, you'd think he was trying to hold on to that moniker! Recorded in Paris in 1981, Live showcases Griffin, pianist Ronnie Mathews, bassist Ray Drummond and drummer Kenny Washington performing 3 standards and 2 originals that give the “little giant" plenty of room to blow. I don't think anyone has plowed through “Autumn ...