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photo by William Gottlieb/Library of Congress

Sidney Bechet at Jimmy Ryan’s, New York, N.Y., ca. 1947

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…..I don’t know about you, but ever since Kenny G made himself known in the world of pop music, the soprano saxophone has been a challenge for me to enjoy.  His “smooth” approach to the instrument has, over the years, been vilified and painstakingly examined.  Other than a clever insult of two, nothing I write could possibly add to the discourse.

…..But, never despair.  Fortunately, there is a world of incredible (and historic) performances on the instrument that will quite possibly salve all emotional wounds.

…..Before Kenny G could count to three (or certainly in 4/4 time), John Coltrane played the soprano saxophone.  So did Johnny Hodges.  And of course there was Sidney Bechet, who may be the first important jazz soloist in history.  Steve Lacy played an incredible soprano sax.  Ever hear him play “Ask Me Now” on soprano?  Wayne Shorter knocked around on the instrument.  Then there are folks like John Surman, Jane Ira Bloom, and the late and very great Lucky Thompson.  Wow.

…..Unsurprisingly, there are vast riches to discover – and rediscover – on the instrument.

…..Over the last couple of weeks I’ve been challenging myself to revisit the instrument’s essence in jazz, and listen to its leading practitioners.  I’m just at the tip of a more enlightened understanding, but far enough along to recommend a few recordings to spend time with.

…..You may enjoy this Spotify playlist, assembled in no particular order, and with zero historical context.  It is merely meant as an opportunity to enjoy, discover, and to possibly even whitewash the “smooth” from the instrument’s contemporary reputation.

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