Who Do You Have To Know?
Origin, 2023
8/10
Listen to Who Do You Have To Know?
The drummer Rich Thompson has an impressive resume and he adds to that body of work here with 9 tunes that welcome Corey Christiansen, Bobby Floyd and Peter Chwazik to the fusion formula.
The title track starts the listen with Floyd’s atmospheric organ and Thompson’s agile drumming in the flowing, worldly jazz climate, and “Street Cred” follows with a playful and melodic spirit that’s full of Christiansen’s flowing guitar work.
Halfway through, “With You” finds an intimate place to reside, where much beauty is present, while “What A Wonderful World” puts a very unique twist on the classic with an infectious jazz energy.
Arriving near the end, “Wave” emits plenty of grooves and balances a frisky yet meticulousness that’s plenty tuneful, and “Fried Pies” exits with a snappy, vibrant display of funk friendly jazz
A listen that’s heavy on group dynamics and with very focused, adaptable musicianship, Thompson and company make the most of the originals and standards across this very refreshing jazz rooted affair.
Travels well with: Anthony Branker & Imagine- What Place Can Be For Us?; Rodney Whitaker- Oasis