George McRae: Being Here (2002)

By

ASIM MEMON,

Asim Memon

20 articles published | Recent:

• Blue Notes
• The Didjdude Harold E. Smith Carves out a Niche
• You Are #6: More Music for Six Musicians
• Memento
• Being Here

Published: November 1, 2001

The Fender Rhodes holds a cult status among keyboard instruments. The manufacturer may be defunct today, but enthusiasts continue to write and perform creative music that showcases the electric piano’s funky sound. Chicago pianist George McRae harnesses the Rhodes on his latest album, Being Here, to produce a set of sharp grooves.

To feature the instrument’s sound, McRae chooses a trio format with just bass and drums backing. Moreover, he’s composed the all-originals program in a manner that allows the dynamic range of the piano to shine. “A Little Taste” and “The Funky Pigeon Stomp” reflect a groovy sensibility. The medium tempo “A Simple Wish” conveys the sweet side of things. And “Woman” aptly closes the set. Here McRae plays unaccompanied. Stripped bare of effects, the keyboard’s pristine electric hum beautifully complements the song’s haunting melody.

Besides the Rhodes, rhythm—manifested through Alan Berliant’s fretless electric bass—defines the session’s focus. On virtually every song Berliant busts out a thundering intro before McRae establishes the theme. With its ‘70s flick soundtrack riff, “Drive” epitomizes the album’s emphasis on heavy rhythm. In this one instance, melodic development takes a back seat to honking bass lines.

McRae definitely places a premium on melody, rhythm and composition, but cogent improvisation also occurs. The leader’s solo on “Running Man”—replete with short phrases, right-hand runs and , at times, a free sound—rewards concentrated attention. Berliant finds an opportunity to stretch out on “A Simple Wish” and “The Funky Pigeon Stomp” offering, respectively, charming and funky solos. Being Here succinctly covers a lot of bases while highlighting an unorthodox jazz instrument. Dig that funky Rhodes!

Track Listing: A Little Taste; Running Man; Shades of You; A Simple Wish; Snakes, Deviants & Politicians; Drive; Barcelona; The Funky Pigeon Stomp; Woman

Personnel: George McRae

Record Label: Affinityjazz | Style: Funk/Groove