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.
STEFON HARRIS
African Tarantella
STRING PLANET
Songs From the Home Planet
BILLY BANG QUINTET FEATURING FRANK LOWE
Above & Beyond: Live in Grand Rapids
Mwalim
Awakened by a Noon Day Sun
Dr. Michael White
Dancing in the Sky
BERNIE WORRELL
Improvisczario
The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.