Jazz Articles
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Mike Clark: Actual Proof
by Glenn Astarita
During his work with pianist, Herbie Hancock’s 70’s super- funk/fusion band “The Headhunters,” Mike Clark quickly acquired a reputation for his distinctly personal and altogether innovative slant on the art of funk drumming. His over-the-top and somewhat slithery approach to a funk groove proved to be a vital component to a group steered by Hancock’s equally pioneering “Arp and Moog” synthesizer excursions. However, Clark’s roots were founded in Be-Bop drumming among prior stints with the late, great, trumpeter, Woody Shaw, ...
read morePaul Jackson: Black Octopus
by Jim Santella
Singer/bassist Paul Jackson likes variety in what he does. Like the inference in his opening track’s title, “Many Directions,” this project moves in many directions all at once. It’s fusion. A strong bassist and enjoyable singer, Jackson employs a fusion of R&B, funk, disco, electronic “outer space” music and a little avant-garde jazz. Originally issued in 1978, Jackson’s debut album features a soulful 5-piece band swinging in a mood representative of that era. Paul Jackson and Bennie Maupin were founding ...
read morePeter Barshay: Pit Of Fashion
by Jim Santella
A century of jazz has brought us many different types of music, which we continue to house under one umbrella. Bassist Peter Barshay represents the central line; however, his album pushes the envelope in various directions. A part of the program is tongue-in-cheek and some of the material catches fire. When you offer smooth jazz, hip bop, and straight-ahead arrangements in the same session you’ve got the ear of many. Barshay’s title track features a sextet line-up. Other songs employ ...
read moreMike Clark: Actual Proof
by Jim Santella
Using original compositions that serve as mainstream jazz anthems, drummer Mike Clark has created a program around his taste for rhythmic drive and small band creativity. Fusion, funk and ballads sit under the umbrella of Clark’s design; however, they’re tempered with tradition. Fluid trumpet and tenor saxophone solos grace “The Viper" accompanied by just the acoustic bass and drums. It’s a lovely setting. And yet, as the title suggests, this one is full of intrigue. The band isn’t as effective ...
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