Ken Clark Organ Trio: Mutual Respect (2005)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: September 23, 2005

Getting down and getting funky, Ken Clark heats things up with a hip attitude. His trio provides the spark to get things moving as the program moves dynamically through eclectic moods. Clark's song list, consisting mostly of originals, affords plenty of variety. From slow, romantic R&B to hip-hop stompers, he grooves with spirit.

Drummer Steve Chaggaris provides a striking backbeat, guitarist Mike Mele solos with fire, and organist Ken Clark creates murals that are made up of "organic" elements. It's true-life stuff from the guys down the street. Clark's trio lends that kind of a credible familiarity to the program.

"Mutual Respect" stutters with a driving swirl. The trio's anthem allows heels to cool while pushing forward in a motion designed for comfort. The song's structure allows them room for an explosion of creative fire. Here, they've captured the essence of mutual respect by working together cohesively to release spasms of energy. Clark sings "Close the Door" with blues on his mind. Romantic R&B colors give the room a glow that's suited to a sultry mood, as the trio oozes with the spirit.

The trio's lightweight funk session comes with a familiar appearance. You get the feeling that you've met these players before. Like the house band from your favorite downtown nightspot, Ken Clark's organ trio gives you the kind of performance that rings familiar.

Track Listing: K Mart Special; Lil' Joe; The New Sound; For Now; Close the Door; I Just Woke Up; Kato; Mutual Respect; Nocturne; Frustration; Influence.

Personnel: Ken Clark: organ, electric piano, vocals; Mike Mele: guitar; Steve Chaggaris: drums.

Record Label: Severn Records
Style: Funk/Groove