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Mose Allison: Gimcracks and Gewgaws
ByAllison's piano delivery on "Somebody Gonna Have To Move (you're standing on my toe)" offers a continuous one-two rhythm behind a right-hand motion that twists and turns unexpectedly. Again, the piano work on "Fires of Spring" becomes intense with a full animated keyboard attack that simulates the lyric's intent; the tune refers to the Spring sunshine that annually brings new life and motion to our world. Guitarist Malone and tenor saxophonist Shim share the solo spotlight without pyrotechnics and with genuine charm. Malone stretches out admirably on "Cruise Control," "The More You Get (the more you've got to lose)," "What Will It Be (that puts you in your casket)," and "St. Louis Blues." Shim offers his trademark clear deep tone on "Gimcracks and Gewgaws," "MJA Jr," "So Tired," "Mockingbird," and "What's With You."
The deeply sentimental ballad "Texanna" pays tribute to "mother and wife / Did you really belong / Am I singing your song," with heartfelt emotion. Harris' bowed bass, Motian's brushes, and the drifting piano accompaniment offer a serene backdrop for the somber lyrics. Conversely, and with a tongue-in-cheek deadpan, the singer weaves intentionally out of tune on "Mockingbird" as Allison's lyrics point toward the bird that mimics calls of others: "Do you have your little rights and wrongs / Do you feel, are you real." And very unlike the mockingbird, Mose Allison continues to provide his own style of lyric, his own blues-drenched vocals, and well-crafted instrumental support. Recommended.
Track Listing
MJA Jr.; Gimcracks and Gewgaws; Numbers on Paper; Cruise Control; St. Louis Blues; Mockingbird; The More You Get; Texanna; What Will It Be; So Tired; Somebody Gonna Have To Move; Fires of Spring; What's With You; Old Man Blues.
Personnel
Mose Allison
piano and vocalsAlbum information
Title: Gimcracks and Gewgaws | Year Released: 1998 | Record Label: Blue Note Records
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