Brian Auger: Voices Of Other Times

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 1, 2000

Surrounded by smooth R&B guitars and voices, Brian Auger rips through the electric piano and Hammond B-3 organ on a thrill ride. This ride doesn’t take you head over heels and through loops. Instead, it takes you on a jazz journey over smooth waters and rolling waves. From fusion to acid jazz, the band has captured a smooth pop/rock atmosphere. His web page offers a detailed time line that traces this popular development.

Daughter Savannah and son Karma provide a natural ingredient for the band. The father’s classy piano and organ solo work could easily overpower this album. Instead, Brian Auger has chosen to share the wealth across the board. Savannah possesses a light and seductive voice that allows one to identify with her message quite easily. Her R&B style finds the singer in firm control with only scant attention paid to the emotions. It’s so "today."

Electric bass, tasteful drumming, colorful congas, the leader’s keyboard romps, and Chris Clermont’s eclectic guitar work make Auger’s album a success. The feeling is there, the updated R&B style is tight, and Auger’s Oblivion Express jams on into the wee hours over oldie-but-goodie reflections.

Track Listing: It Burns Me Up; Isola Natale; Voices of Other Times; Splatch; Indian Rope Man; Soul Glow; Victor

Personnel: Brian Auger- Hammond B-3 organ, piano, Rhodes electric piano; Dan Lutz- electric bass; Karma D. Auger- drums, percussion; Chris Clermont- guitars; Long John Oliva- congas; Savannah Auger- vocals.

Record Label: Miramar Productions
Style: Jam Band