Johnny Griffin Orchestra - The Big Soul-Band & White Gardenia

2012 reissue

The startling and formidably large sound in The Big Soul Band led by Johnny Griffin and featuring arrangements by Norman Simmonsopened a new soul trend among the medium-sized recording units that had become popular in 1960. Simmons combined earthy new tunes and old spirituals, and Griffin, as the main soloist, plays with his customary swaggering groove and all-encompassing fervour. And there are fine solos by Clark Terry, Bobby Timmons, Matthew Gee, and Victor Sproles to add to the flavour.

The second album, White Gardenia, is Griffins tribute to Billie Holiday. Reflecting the melancholy side of Lady Days repertoire, the arrangements by Melba Liston and Simmons are appropriately dark-hued and brooding. Nevertheless, the blending of a warm toned string section (cellos and violas) with the horns provides a setting that allows Griffin to reveal a more relaxed and pensive aspect of a musical personality renowned for his ability to deliver the kind of blistering, tear-the-door-down tenor that was his stock in trade.