Willis "Gator" Jackson originally made a strong impression as a honking R&B player, first with the Cootie Williams Orchestra, then with his own popular bands. In 1959, starting with this Prestige set (which has been reissued on CD),
Jackson made his mark on soul-jazz. Teamed with the up-and-coming organist
Jack McDuff, guitarist
Bill Jennings, bassist
Tommy Potter and drummer
Alvin Johnson,
Gator is heard modifying his style a little (gone are most of the screams) in favor of swinging. He performs four group originals, "Come Back to Sorrento," and "Memories of You" with soulful feeling. ~ Scott Yanow