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.
THE SOUL REBELS
Unlock Your Mind
Yelena Eckemoff Quintet
In The Shadow Of A Cloud
Bryan Vargas & ¡Ya Esta!
Afro Latino Soul
Bill Frisell
Unspeakable
LONNIE SMITH
Jungle Soul
Bill Charlap Trio
Somewhere: The Music of Leonard Bernstein
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