Ballyhoo
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
The pianist/keyboardist Grant Richards surrounds himself by Damian Erskine (electric bass), Reinhardt Melz (drums, percussion) and Carmelo Torres (congas, percussion) for this Afro-Cuban listen that’s never short on imagination or diversity across the authenic listen.
“Bonenkai” starts the listen with warm, flowing piano and very animated percussion that suits the rhythm and grooves, and “Two Became One” follows with a calmer approach that benefits from agile keys and strategic electric bass.
Entering the middle, “Elizabeth” is sublime and tender balladry, while “Bye-Ya” gets frisky, lively and full of world music ideas that bounce and shake with strong attention to melody and spirit. “Suite For Bass” then unfolds across 4 movements where the acrobatic bass playing makes an indelible impression.
“Space” and “Secret Love” exit the listen, where the former is indeed a bit out of this world in a prog-friendly sort of way, and the latter emits a busy and highly textured landscape of playful percussion, dancing keys and universally enjoyable song craft.
Even though he’s spent most of his career focused on the blues and bebop sounds, Richards is certainly well versed in these cultured nods, where a lifelong dream of penning an Afro-Cuban record comes to fruition in a very creative and memorable way.
Travels well with: Eddie Palmieri- Mi Luz Mayor; Oscar Hernandez & Alma Libre- Vision