Simple Things
Ultimate Vibe, 2022
8/10
The esteemed guitarist and composer Chris Standring returns with Andre Berry (bass), Chris Coleman (drums), Rodney Lee (keyboards), Gary Meek (sax) and Kevin Axt (bass) for a batch of tunes that surround the theme of enjoying the simple things in life, something Standring is practicing more of after a recent health scare.
“Shadow Of Doubt” opens the listen with smooth guitar work alongside frisky drums and plenty of melody, and “Thank You Bootsy” follows with the clever bass lines adding much appeal to the stylish climate.
Entering the middle, “Face To Face” recruits plenty of atmosphere to the dreamy delivery that was influenced by Prince, while “Ain’t Nuthin’ But A Thing” showcases Lee on organ for the adventurous yet cautious display of dynamic musicianship.
Further down the line, the intimate and warm “Too Close For Comfort” emits much beauty with some R&B nods into the timeless jazz landscape, and “And The Show Goes On” exits the listen with Standring’s intricate and fluid guitar playing meshing superbly with the restrained drums and calculate bass.
Yet another outstanding modern jazz record and his 14th as leader, Standring flirts with blues, funk, soul and R&B here, too, and it makes for a charming, heartfelt and very wise listen.
Travels well with: Eric Goletz- A New Light; The Chris Saunders Band- Dancing With The Widow St. James