Rollins Dazzles at the Paramount

Sonny Rollins

Entering the historic Paramount Theatre, born two years before Sonny Rollins in 1928, the majestic grandeur of the space inspires an almost spiritual reverence. The setting Monday night at the Paramount was the church of jazz and Sonny Rollins was preaching the gospel as he returned to Seattle on Monday following a fifteen year absence. This tour, being billed as his eightieth birthday tour (his birthday is in September), marked a rare opportunity for Seattleites to witness the genius of a master tenor saxophone player up close and personal.

Rollins entered the stage to a standing ovation; and we noted that the audience was nearly as passionate about the music as Rollins himself. Kicking things off with “In a Sentimental Mood,” Rollins jerked and danced his way around the stage, all the while blowing through his inspired solos. His shock of white puffy hair accompanied by a dapper white dinner jacket gave him the air of some type of mad jazz professor. His good-natured humor appeared in the few moments between songs. “Let’s not talk about the oil spill” he joked, noting instead to focus on music as one of the “most important” things we have.

While Sonny Rollins was clearly the main event, his backup band was no slouch. Rollins usually prefers playing sans piano, but was aided on Monday with a dynamite piano accompaniment (and without a guitarist). Drummer Kobie Watkins was also a highlight; his chemistry with Rollins captured the energy of the audience and the dynamic nature of the music.

Now, let’s talk a little more about Rollins: the man is turning eighty this year. For a full ninety minute set, Rollins was thoroughly impressive and passionate about his performance. The evening closed with an impromptu blues jam, highlighted by an amusing bit of blues singing by Rollins himself. When it was over, the audience leapt to their feet again and stayed standing for one of the longest ovations we’ve seen in a while. Although Rollins clearly wasn’t coming back for an encore, he did stick his head out the side of the curtain and tap his heart with a knowing smile. His excellent performance at the Paramount Monday spoke to both the love his fans have for him, and the love he gives them back.