Oct. 15, 2010

With a very alluring, ear-friendly blend of jazz, world, and soul influences, fo/mo/deep, this talented group of musicians which reminds one of the iconic group War in some ways, teases and pleases with touches and tastes of piano, sax, trumpet, and percussion in all the right places on this aptly-titled debut release, Eclecticism, with plenty of rhythm and exoticism.
 
After an interlude-like opening track called “Waiting,” the group rolls into “Drinks @ 8 (Words),”  a track that truly sets the mind to the early War days with sharp, clear instruments singing out with individualism. That’s followed by a really striking bluesy, N’Orleans-flavored version of Nat Adderly’s “Hummin’” where the trumpet does the hummin’, and the bass does some serious walkin’.  Sax action carries the hook and carries it well.  Gotta love it.

The album is chock full of solid examples of eclecticism, and you can just sense that this group obviously started out with that very concept in mind before settling down to craft this appealing little gem. Heavy on horns and melody, each tune carries evidence of having been carefully and meticulously dissected and manipulated until perfection was realized as much as the members wanted.

Tunes like the cleverly titled “Mitch Better Have My Bunny” are for true fusion jazz aficionados, as the bass, keys, and drums work off each other in a sweet time-rich dance so well choreographed that it’s almost sinful, as the sax tosses off some tight runs to spice up everything just right.  The very same thing can be said for the nice cover of Lonny Liston Smith’s “Expansions,” which features some smooth vocals, as well as cool flute.  Bassist Ron Holmes’ own “Slap That Thang” slaps it thick and funky with plenty of horn help.

This is a great debut effort by a group of guys determined to make a lasting impression as bonafide jazz musicians with eclectic tastes and talents.  Mission accomplished.  – Ronald Jackson