Charlie Parker
Alto Sax Solo on
Max Making Wax

About

Charlie Parker's alto sax solo is the 2nd of 3 on this recording, spanning one chorus at approximately 330 BPM. Set within a swinging rhythmic framework, the 32-bar AABA form and the key of C, the solo tests the player's command at high velocity. Built on the chord changes of "I Got Rhythm," the harmonic foundation is a familiar one in the jazz repertoire, inviting inventive melodic departures. Positioned between Howard McGhee and Jimmy Bunn, Parker bridges the conversation between the two. This recording is from a turbulent period in Parker's life during his time in Los Angeles, and the session also produced the notorious Lover Man recording.

Charlie Parker was 25 to 26 years old at the time.