Key Lime
Color Red, 2023
8/10
The trio of Tim Carman (drums), Steve Fell (guitar) and Ken Clark (organ) make the most of these 8 tracks with nods to legends of the ‘60s and influences from blues, gospel, soul, and, of course, jazz.
“Blues For Bob” opens the listen, and wastes little time making an impression with its playful organ and crisp drumming that’s complemented by the spirited guitar work, and “Scoochie” follows with a swift and radiant display of frisky jazz sensibilities.
At the midpoint, “Not A Tear’” trims the pace back with an intimate delivery of reflective and warm song craft, while “Drinkin’” showcases Clark’s meticulous keys amid the bouncy rhythm.
Landing near the end, the lively pace of “Sonny Moon For Two”, the album’s best, illustrates the dynamic chemistry between the trio with an incredible attention to detail, and “Insomnia” exits the listen with precise textures of thoughtful, timeless jazz.
You might recognize Carman from his full time gig playing in the blues giants GA-20, and let’s hope this side project isn’t a one off affair, cause the energy and focus captured live in the single day this was recorded warrants more much for the listener.
Travels well with: Skip Grasso- Becoming; Jared Gold- Reemergence