Willis Jackson - Gator's Groove (1968) [vinyl>flac]

The sound of Willis Jackson is one that is steeped in tradition. It is a sound that brings to mind the glorious era of big-toned tenormen; Dexter Gordon, Illinois Jacquet, Wardell Grey, Gene Ammons and Sonny Stitt. Those men frequently worked in partnerships and there are places on this LP where one wishes for another horn man for one of those friendly duels. Willis used to be known as "Gaitor tail" and I can remember "partying down" while listening to Willis burn on the tune of that name. When Willis later turned to jazz and formed his organ combo he had more hits. Willis Jackson, Bill Jennings, Jackie Ivory, Jerry Potter and Richard Landrum - I thank you. Thank you for bringing us a music that has stood the test of time and in your hands still sounds new and refreshing. ~ Extract from Liner Notes by Ed Love.

Prestige Records, PRST 7648, 1969

Recorded 11^th Nov., 1968 at Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey

Musicians:

Willis Jackson - Tenor Saxophone, Gatorhorn (#A2,B2)

Jackie Ivory - Organ [Hammond B-3]

Bill Jennings - Guitar

Jerry Potter - Drums

Richie "Pablo" Landrum - Conga, Bongos

Tracks:

A1. Brother Ray {Ray Barretto} (4:11)

A2. A Day In The Life Of A Fool {Carl Sigman, Luiz Bonfá} (6:27)

A3. This Is The Way I Feel {Willis Jackson} (9:42)

B1. Blue Jays {Bill Jennings, Jackie Ivory, Willis Jackson} (7:17)

B2. Stolen Sweets {Wild Bill Davis, Dickie Thompson} (5:37)

B3. Long Tall Dexter {Dexter Gordon} (7:03)

Credits:

Supervision - Bob Porter

Recording, Mastering Engineer - Rudy van Gelder

Design, Photo - Don Schlitten

Liner Notes - Ed Love (March 1969)