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Ron Blake, feat. Reuben Rogers & John Hadfield: SCRATCH Band
ByThe term "SCRATCH band," Blake writes, refers to "a tradition of folk music performed by storytellers and groove makers in the community [he] grew up with in the Virgin Islands." Blake has clearly taken that custom to heart, as he is a first-rate storyteller on every horn. He is also a stellar groove maker, as are his able companions, Rogers and Hadfield. The grooves they tend to favor, however, are for the most part medium-tempo and easygoing, with "Appointment" the lone outlier, trotting at a relatively brighter and more rapid pace.
Besides "Appointment," Blake also wrote "Grace Ann," "Song for Maya" and "April's Fool," none of which raises the over-all temperature above moderate. Completing the program are Winston Bailey's "Bassman," Roy Hargrove's "Another Level," Quelvis Cruz's "La Conga de Juana," the standard "Body and Soul" and the inspiring anthem "Lift Every Voice and Sing." Rogers' robust bass plays a prominent role on "Body and Soul," "Level," "Grace Ann" and "Song for Maya," on which he and Blake perform sans Hadfield.
The drums add weight and color on the opening "Bassman," "Lift Every Voice," "Appointment" and the closing numbers, "La Conga de Juana" and "April's Fool," on each of which Blake unlimbers his soulful baritone, which brings to mind Serge Chaloff, Cecil Payne and Nick Brignola, among others. As a showcase for Blake's warmth and versatility, the SCRATCH Band serves its purpose well, and it rests easily on the ears while marshaling a hearty and appetizing banquet. Just do not expect any fireworks.
Track Listing
Bassman; Body and Soul; Another Level; Lift Every Voice and Sing; Grace Ann; Appointment; Song for Maya; La Conga de Juana; April's Fool.
Personnel
Album information
Title: SCRATCH Band | Year Released: 2025 | Record Label: 7tēn33 Productions
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