Ralph Sutton - Salute to Fats

All Music Guide

Once he emerged on the jazz scene following World War II, Ralph Sutton became known as one of the greatest stride pianists of the modern era. This session by Sutton, recorded for the Columbia budget label Harmony (with the typical lack of liner notes or listing of personnel), is in tribute to stride and swing pianist Fats Waller, covering ten of his compositions, though not necessarily sticking just his best known works. Sutton's graceful treatment of "Jitterbug Waltz,", the joyful "Ain't Misbehavin'" the playful "Viper's Drag" (which alternates between dramatic and humorous themes) and a rollicking "Ain'tCha Glad" are obvious favorites. But the overlooked gem in this collection is the infrequently heard swinger "Take It From Me (I'm Talkin' to You)." Long out of print and a rather unlikely CD reissue candidate, this LP will be somewhat difficult to acquire.

- Ken Dryden, All Music Guide