Bob Bangerter: Playin' The Right Thing

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: August 1, 1998

Guitarist Bob Bangerter plays smooth jazz with accompaniment from keyboardist George Tavoularis, several horns, and a rhythm team. Like a mid-winter vacation in Hawaii, the session offers relaxed breezes and softly floating melodies.

A brief introspective by Dr. Lonnie Smith titled "Smith Street" features the organist's voice to the accompaniment of an acoustic blues guitar. Dr. Smith talks some of his experiences and offers sage advice: "Groovin' ... is more important than speed, you know."

Bangerter wrote each of the songs on the session. Several of the titles offer a genuine glimpse of the mood portrayed by the music: "Drive Time" supplies a relaxed feeling fit for accompanying a pleasurable seascape panorama. "The Gospel Truth" adds five lovely voices to the mix for a subtle, rocking statement about keeping friendships open and pure. "Soul Purpose" brings in a horn section and organ to change the pace; tenor saxophonist David Choy shares the solo spotlight with Bangerter. "Simpatico" is agreeable and serene with polite conversation between the electric bass, keyboards, and guitar.

The title track swings out with a back beat and pairs tenor saxophonist Cornelius Bumpus with the leader's guitar. "Rhythm Blue" employs vocals from Damon Williams, in unison with Bangerter's guitar, that recall the unique style of George Benson. "Book Ends" closes the session with a perfect match for "Drive Time." It's the return trip, and once again the pleasant scenery makes the trip worthwhile.

The label's address is Don't Stop Music, P.O. Box 423, Kula, HI 96790.

Track Listing: Drive Time; Lauren's Point of View; Rhythm Blue; Smith Street; Playin' the Right Thing; Mister B; Simpatico; The Gospel Truth; Short Fuse; Soul Purpose; Hook Me Up; The Visitor; Book Ends.

Record Label: Don't Stop Music
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream