It seemed obvious that our first project would pay homage to the genius performer. The fourth alto solo performance by Sonny Simmons to be issued, this one is as important as Jewels in that it demonstrates Simmons' ability to elaborate on catchy, clever tunes, in a distinctive frame very much of his own: he stretches time to the extreme without losing the beat, the power, with a spectacular instinct for structuring, right on the spot, a continuous flow of ideas that Bert Wilson once described as "awe-inspiring".

Limited edition of 70, march 2006.

Credits: Astrid Leducq: design. Benjamin Duboc: mastering. Thanks to Sonny Simmons, Roy Morris, and Marc Chaloin. Special thanks to Jean-Paul Chazalon and Emmanuel Miras of Rhino Jazz Festival; don't forget to visit them at http://www.jazzrivedegier.com/.