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Storyville Records Presents 'Live In Valencia 92' From The Legendary Tenor Saxophonist, Johnny Griffin

Live in Valencia 92 offers a glimpse into Griffin’s artistry, showcasing a mastery of the tenor saxophone across a repertoire of standards by his favorite composers like Duke Ellington and Thelonious Monk, but we also get The Cat, one of his own compositions and almost considered a theme song for Johnny Griffin.
—Storyville Records
The Little Giant live in Spain
Johnny Griffin
Live in Valencia 92

The legendary tenor saxophonist, Johnny Griffin’s electrifying performance in Valencia, Spain in 1992 is set to be immortalized on the upcoming release, Live in Valencia 92, on June 21, 2024 on Storyville Records.

Accompanied by an all-star trio with French pianist Hervé Sellin, bassist Reggie Johnson and Doug Sides on drums, this recording, consisting of 6 tracks, is a chance to hear Johnny Griffin at his best, enjoying being out there live with an enthusiastic Spanish audience.

The recording made in a defunct savings bank auditorium adorned with warm fabrics and wood accents, sounds great with its cozy ambiance and impeccable acoustics. From the moment Griffin stepped onto the stage, his charisma was palpable, captivating audiences with his inimitable style, sense of humor and swing. Griff at his best!

Live in Valencia 92 offers a glimpse into Griffin’s artistry, showcasing a mastery of the tenor saxophone across a repertoire of standards by his favorite composers like Duke Ellington and Thelonious Monk, but we also get “The Cat," one of his own compositions and almost considered a theme song for Johnny Griffin.

Johnny Griffin loved the European way of living and the Europeans loved him back. He settled in France, but spent time in Amsterdam and Copenhagen as well. As Hervé Sellin writes about playing jazz “we don’t take it too seriously, but we do it very seriously”. That was what Johnny Griffin was known for, A little giant making everybody have a good time. And that’s exactly what you experience on this recording.

Johnny Griffin (1928-2008) was an American jazz tenor saxophonist known for his blistering speed and technical prowess. A prolific performer and recording artist, Griffin’s career spanned over six decades, during which he collaborated with some of the most prominent figures in jazz, including Art Blakey, Thelonious Monk and John Coltrane. This recording serves as a poignant reminder of Griffin’s enduring impact on the jazz world. For jazz enthusiasts, Live in Valencia 92 is a must have addition to any collection, offering a glimpse into the brilliance of one of jazz music’s true icons.

Credits

Producers: Jordi Suñol & Christian Brorsen
Contributions: Hervé Sellin, Jorge García & Jordi Suñol
Mastering & editing: Jørgen Vad
Photos: Esther Cidoncha
Cover design: Finn Nygaard
Issued by arrangement with the Estate of Johnny Griffin
Recording: Auditorio Bancaja, Valencia, Spain, January 29,1992

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Track Listing

Just Friends; A Monk’s Dream; Sophisticated Lady; The Cat; Rhythm-A-Ning; Medley: Blue Monk / Things Ain’t What They Used to Be.

Personnel

Johnny Griffin
saxophone, tenor
Reggie Johnson
bass, acoustic

Album information

Title: Live in Valencia 92 | Year Released: 2024 | Record Label: Storyville Records


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