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Justin Morell Quintet: The Music Of Steely Dan
ByThe quintet's modus operandi rings loud and clear as Morell, John Daversa (trumpet) and Tom Peterson (saxophone) jubilantly state the memorable choruses in concert with the jazz-based rhythms. Whereby, the guitarist often anchors the proceedings via his deft comping and beautifully structured soloing. They adhere to the original compositions while injecting a personalized stamp into works such as the dreamy "Home At Last," and others. In addition, the soloists articulate a mild frenzy atop the rhythm section's leanly executed swing on, "I Got The News."
The musicians touch upon a higher worldly plane during their modern jazz-based spin of "The Royal Scam." On this piece, the soloists' augment the song's soulful motif with ferocious call and response type dialogue. Legendary L.A. session drummer, John Guerin lays down a brisk strut in support of Daversa's warmly stated lines and Peterson's soul-searching tenor sax solo on "Babylon Sisters." Bassist, Todd Sickafoose often propels the band into mid-tempo swing vamps while Morell's well-placed chord progressions provide a budding flow throughout.
Many of "Steely Dan's" LPs continue to enjoy staying power, as Morell and co. parallels that notion in exuberant (jazz-based) fashion with this glowing testament to a great outfit. Highly recommended.
Track Listing
Home at Last; My Rival; I Got the News; Third World Man; The Royal Scam; Maxine; End of the Line; Babylon Sisters.
Personnel
Justin Morell
guitarJustin Morell: guitar
Album information
Title: The Music Of Steely Dan | Year Released: 2002 | Record Label: Sonic Frenzy Records
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Justin Morell Quintet
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Justin Morell
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Sonic Frenzy Records
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The Music Of Steely Dan