Denys Baptiste Pays Tribute to Sonny Rollins
A Sonny Rollins tribute concert led by saxophonist Denys Baptiste and bassist Gary Crosby proved to be a deeply personal and musically rich celebration of the late jazz giant. Drawing heavily from Saxophone Colossus, the performance reminded audiences why Rollins remains one of jazz's most enduring figures.
A Personal Jazz Journey Rooted in Rollins
Baptiste opened up about how Rollins shaped his life, recounting how hearing 'Don't Stop the Carnival' as a child on a Sunday jazz radio show sparked his passion for the saxophone. That same tune closed the evening, giving the concert a deeply emotional full-circle moment. His storytelling between songs ensured that even newcomers to Rollins' soul-stirring catalog left with a genuine understanding of the man's legacy.
A Band Built on Decades of Trust
The chemistry between Baptiste, Crosby, drummer Rod Youngs, and pianist Andrew McCormack was unmistakable. With some musical relationships spanning nearly 30 years, the band's relaxed familiarity allowed each tune to breathe and shine. McCormack balanced smooth flow with playful invention, while Youngs delivered a performance that was simultaneously subtle and explosive.
Saxophone Colossus Takes Center Stage
The two sets drew unapologetically from Rollins' landmark album Saxophone Colossus, covering nearly every track without a single complaint from the crowd. Baptiste acknowledged that Rollins' vast catalog deserves more than one night, hinting at a follow-up concert. For fans of jazz and funk-infused improvisation, the evening felt like both a fitting tribute and an open invitation to explore more.
Key Takeaways
Baptiste and Crosby delivered a tribute that was as educational as it was electrifying, blending deep jazz knowledge with genuine musical soul. The concert honored Rollins not just as a saxophone colossus, but as a life-changing force for generations of musicians. A follow-up show cannot come soon enough.
Author: Rosa Sawer
Source: UK Jazz News
Published: September 30, 2026
