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.JACK DEJONETTE AND BILL FRISELL
The Elephant Sleeps But Still Remembers
Bob Merrill and Roswell Rudd
Cheerin' Up The Universe
Various Artists
European Jazz Stage (Radio Netherlands Worldwide)
Lizz Wright
The Orchard
Tin Hat
The Sad Machinery of Spring
ERIN BODE
The Little Garden
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