Get up! and dance to these infectious grooves that come from Africa by way of African American culture in the U.S., sometimes referred to as R & B, intersecting with the blues, jazz, Afro-Cuban music, and that distinctly American sound that permeated the airwaves in the 1960s and beyond. Artists like James Brown, Sam and Dave, The Isley Brothers, all the Motown artists, and ultimately bands like Sly and the Family Stone, Tower of Power and Herbie Hancock s Headhunters from the bay area (East Bay Grease!) are all part of the evolution of the sound. Here, then, are 9 tracks that are clearly R & B influenced, but then go to many other places along the way. The big band instrumentation lends itself to this rhythmically intense music very nicely while allowing for a myriad of color and texture possibilities in the process- using these relatively simple tunes as a springboard for harmonic, rhythmic, and melodic exploration.
S**N
Normally I very much enjoy this writer's material
Normally I very much enjoy this writer's material, but on this particular outing he is efforts to be in a particular style and up making everything sound very homogeneous and similar. The tracks just kind of run right into each other. Rather disappointed in this particular release.
E**H
Big Band with some serious pocket playing.
This is a fun record and, as was said in days of yore, is a real Toe-Tapper. And, with a rhythm section battery of Will Lee and Will Kennedy, how could it not be?The R&B covers are fun. But, I find Mintzer's originals—and his Weather Report arrangement—to be the most compelling tunes on the album. As always, the ensemble playing is killer, the soloists have great personalities, and there's the energy of it having been recorded during live concert performances.Recommended for long-time Mintzer fans (like me) as well as for non-jazz people who dig the old-school R&B vibe. It's all good!
A**R
Good Music
Lovin the big band sound of these R&B/Pop/Rock hits.Wasn't familiar with all the songs, but I do enjoy them.
J**R
Bob Mintzer has long been a favorite of mine
Bob Mintzer has long been a favorite of mine. From my years in high school, where some of my first exposure to jazz was playing his music, to today, Bob's bands and writing never disappoint. This is the latest effort in the evolution of his music, and it's a spectacular effort. Do yourself a favor and get this one !
T**B
Five Stars
Well done big band!
A**O
Uneven but enjoyable
Great concept but I'm not knock out by the cover tune selections. The original material is far better. Regardless Mintzer is great arranger and the playing is top notch.
M**D
Four Stars
Mintzer shows his versatility on this one-well done
G**R
Five Stars
This is big bad band music!!
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