< I am just not a big Charlie Parker fan, his sound doesnt generally grab me.>
Never grabbed me either . Much prefer Lester Young , Ben Webster , Coleman Hawkins , Jackie McLean , Coltrane , Mulligan , Richie Kamuca ( SHelly Manne’s tenor )...
I would get a Charlie Parker album and listen to it a few times, but...when I was in the mood for something good to listen to that would kind of accent what mood I wanted, it was always those other guys, and I would never go back and listen to Parker.
Then, when casting about, would see the album and listen to it a bit...but wouldn't play it again.
So, I admit I just don't know him and his work well. A lot of people characterize him as the greatest, and I have to admit, he might be.
But to me, he sounded...technical. I don't know if that is the right term, but...I contrast it with Ben Webster's style.
Ben Webster didn't sound technical at all. It sounded like HE was playing it, from inside himself, each time. I can't explain it. Webster just sounded more "alive" or "emotional" to me, more "organic".
So, I have to refrain from the Charlier Parker debate...:( I admit to ignorance.