2008-12-26
Being from Michigan, I can't listen to this Chicago-based jazz combo without comparing them to our own Organissimo. MFP's organ-driven sound seems more rooted in classic jazz, however. Their take on Charlie Parker's "Buzzy" is wonderfully upbeat. Sonny Rollins' "Pent Up House" gets the treatment as well. Their original compositions hold up in their own right. Take "Wake Up"; its percussion lends it a lounge-type feel. Another original piece, "Aw Geez", features some nice B3 licks and a walking bass. While I found the crowd noise on this live album to be a bit distracting at times, I think overall, this is a fine release. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth.DR. LONNIE SMITH
SPIRAL
BEN ALLISON AND MAN SIZE SAFE
Little Things Run the World
NIA QUINTET
End of Time
CHICK COREA & GARY BURTON
The New Crystal Silence
Bob James & Nathan East
The New Cool
JEFF COFFIN MU'TET
Mutopia
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