Re: Celebrity Deathmatch - Adderley vs. Parker
I know that comparisons like these are often pointless, and then we have to respect Parker's position as an innovator. I also agree that speed is not always the criteria of a superior player. However, I always enjoy listening to Cannonball far more than Parker. I wouldn't say it's just because of the quality of the recordings, but also, very often, and perhaps unfortunately, Parker often sounds like a junkie. Cannonball's only drug was the aspirin he took for his migraines. I think Cannonball's tone was richer and smoother, which was influenced by Benny Carter, according to Cannonball.
If speed was a criteria, Cannonball could keep up with Bird. Listen to his solos on "Two Bass Hit" or "Limehouse Blues" as an example.
Of course, I will always tip my hat to Bird for his innovations. You can't play the saxophone or jazz without going through him. However, for pure listening enjoyment, I prefer Cannonball. Expressive tone, a great groove, and very tasty playing. Cannonball, though not an innovator, may have been one of the foremost assimilators of the history of jazz. His playing reflected the whole development of jazz up to his time. Just listen to how he could absorb the ideas of John Coltrane while they were both with Miles, and yet still sound so completely like Cannonball. Cannonball was a very melodic player too.
No matter how he explored the changes, you can always hear the tune. As far as I'm concerned, that is one of the most important things a player can do.
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