Brian Auger: Voices Of Other Times

Surrounded by smooth R&B guitars and voices, Brian Auger rips through the electric piano and Hammond B-3 organ on a thrill ride. This ride doesn’t take you head over heels and through loops. Instead, it takes you on a jazz journey over smooth waters and rolling waves. From fusion to acid jazz, the band has captured a smooth pop/rock atmosphere. His web page offers a detailed time line that traces this popular development.

Daughter Savannah and son Karma provide a natural ingredient for the band. The father’s classy piano and organ solo work could easily overpower this album. Instead, Brian Auger has chosen to share the wealth across the board. Savannah possesses a light and seductive voice that allows one to identify with her message quite easily. Her R&B style finds the singer in firm control with only scant attention paid to the emotions. It’s so "today."

Electric bass, tasteful drumming, colorful congas, the leader’s keyboard romps, and Chris Clermont’s eclectic guitar work make Auger’s album a success. The feeling is there, the updated R&B style is tight, and Auger’s Oblivion Express jams on into the wee hours over oldie-but-goodie reflections.