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George Kahn: ...Compared to What?
ByKahn says playing a solo in front of this bandtenor and trumpet in front of a rhythm section, mostlyis like driving a well-tuned Ferrari, and that's a pretty apt comparison for this sound: clean, synchronized, and lightly lubricated for an effortless forward momentum provided by the drive train/rhythm section.
"Mercedes the Lady" introduces Latin sounds. Kahn is adept in an array of styles here. "Compared to What" proves itself a funkier, harder-driving version of the Les McCann/Eddie Harris hit from '68, featuring vocalist Courtney Lemmon, whose soulful take on the lyrics show them to be as relevant in these turbulent times as they were in the late sixties. "5 to Get Ready 10 to Go" has a Kind of Blue -ish feel, with some marvelous mute work by trumpeter John Fumo.
Saxophonist Eric Marienthal sits in on two tunes. His tone, sharp and stinging, always brings a modern edge to the sound. I've loved his playing ever since I first heard it in Chick Corea's Elektric Band's Inside Out (GRP, '90); and he doesn't disappoint here. He just cooks, with a clean, high heat on "Too Much Sax," adding some fire to the title tune as well.
An excellent set, with different styles deftly mixed and held together by the stellar rhythm team behind a bunch of spirited blowing. The title tune alone is worth the price of admission, but then so are all the others. Kahn, piano; Alex Acuna, drums and percussion; and Brian Bromberg, bass: they've got to put out a trio set sometime.
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Track Listing
On Green Dolphin Street, Mercedes for the Lady, Compared to What, 5 to Get Ready 10 to Go, Too Much Sax, Woodstock, Soul Sauce, Gnomesyain', Alice in Wonderland, The Hero's Journey
Personnel
George Kahn
pianoGeorge Kahn—piano; Alex Acuna—drums and percussion; Justo Almario—tenor and soprano saxophones; Brian Bromberg—bass; John Fumo—trumpet, flugelhorn; with guests Eric Marienthal—tenor and alto saxophones; Courtney Lemmon—vocal on "Compared to What"; Ira Ingler—guitar
Album information
Title: ...Compared to What? | Year Released: 2004 | Record Label: Playing Records