Mike Clark: Actual Proof

Perhaps the drummer’s most comprehensive solo effort to date, the listener will be treated to a series of peppery arrangements, featuring his idiosyncratic, push and pull mode of execution. Clark’s years of shedding with the best and brightest comes to fruition via his impossibly structured backbeats and flair for the dynamic, where he acts as a catalyst for the soloists. On the catchy “Stingers,” Clark maintains a metronome-like vibe with his hi-hat, counterbalanced by cross-stick patterns on his snare amid 8-string electric guitarist, Charlie Hunter’s groove-based voicings. “The Viper” boasts a slithery funk groove, accented by the horn sections’ blustery choruses and feisty exchanges while the band gains impetus atop Clark’s ascending rhythms. The musicians even manage to toss a soft ballad into the mix, not to mention the crawling blues piece titled, “Attack Of The 40 ft. Woman.” Whereas, the group tops off the often-excitable proceedings with a super charged, hybrid funk/New Orleans shuffle vamp on “The Famous Door.” Nonetheless, this is a thoroughly memorable affair! Vigorously recommended!

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