THE JAMES TAYLOR QUARTET

New World

2009-02-24

While James Taylor may be considered a master of the Hammond, he says he was inspired to make this piano-based album by the baby grand piano that he was storing for a friend. There is, however, plenty of Hammond, clavinet, and Fender Rhodes here to go around. While this band may be tight with their studio recordings, I think this leans more toward smooth jazz than on their more upbeat and interesting live releases. (Check out the albums "Live at the Jazz Cafe" or "Whole Lotta Live".) There is still some mildly interesting stuff here such as the opening track which features Gareth Lockrane on flute. The best track most definitely is "Hotwire" with its quick horn bursts and high-hat taps. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Jazz

  • reviewed 05/2012

    CLAYTON CAMERON AND THE JAZZ EXPLOSION
    Here's To The Messengers: A Tribute to Art Blakey

  • reviewed 03/2011

    JAMBALAYA BRASS BAND
    IT'S A JUNGLE OUT THERE

  • reviewed 03/2008

    Jeff Coffin & Charlie Peacock
    Arc of The Circle

  • reviewed 09/2015

    Bob Merrill and Roswell Rudd
    Cheerin' Up The Universe

  • reviewed 10/2009

    PONCHO SANCHEZ
    PSYCHEDELIC BLUES

  • reviewed 09/2008

    MATT BELSANTE
    – Blame it on My Youth

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

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.