Possessor of a cutting and immediately identifiable tough tenor tone, Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis could hold his own in a saxophone battle with anyone. Davis’ earliest recordings as a leader tended to be explosive R&B affairs with plenty of screaming from his horn; he matched wits successfully with Fats Navarro on one session. Davis was with Count Basie’s Orchestra on several occasional (including 1952-1953, 1957, and 1964-1973) and teamed up with Shirley Scott’s trio during 1955-1960. During 1960-1962, he collaborated in some exciting performances and recordings with Johnny Griffin, a fellow tenor who was just as combative as Davis. After temporarily retiring to become a booking agent (1963-1964), Davis rejoined Basie. In his later years, Lockjaw often recorded with Harry “Sweets” Edison and he remained a busy soloist up until his death. ~Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
In my humble opinion, this album is the finest example of amazing tenor playing I have ever heard! I learned as much as I could when I was a kid, but it still floors me. Wow! John F. Phillips.
Lockjaw and griffin knew all the chords, blowing at a fast pace, pays to study and practice, excellent performance by the two tenor sax men, hope they both are in heaven performing for GOD.