Format: DVD Release Date: 1/27/2009 UPC: 054961816392 Item ID: 1047249 Studio: ACORN MEDIA ProductID: ACRN8163DVD Region: Video: COLOR Audio: PCM stereo Language: English
Disc #1 -- Sonny Rollins Saxophone Colossus 1. A Meditation/"G-Man" [15:08] 2. Early Days/"The Bridge" [7:44] 3. A Close Relationship [1:15] 4. Collaboration and Improvisation [9:47] 5. Standards/Lucille/Self-Production [5:48] 6. Preparing the Concerto [5:10] 7. Concerto for Tenor Sexophone and Orchestra Movements 1, 3, 4, 5, and 7 [2:36] 8. Proving Himself/"Don't Stop the Carnival" [41:48]
Saxophone Colossus is a lengthy documentary of the life and work of jazz saxophonist Theodore Walter "Sonny" Rollins. As is Standard Operating Procedure for films of this nature, clips of Rollins making music alternate with interviews of the subject's friends, relatives and co-workers. Recounted for benefit of fans and casual viewers alike are Rollins' years with Babs Gonzales, Thelonious Monk, Bud Powell, Miles Davis and the Modern Jazz Quartet. The film is particularly valuable to jazz buffs in light of the fact that Sonny hadn't made a recording since 1978. A past master at conveying the exuberance and artistic significance of African American-based music, director Robert Mugge admirably brings Saxophone Colossus to full and vibrant life, even during the potentially sedate interview clips. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide