That Place
EFP, 2024
8/10
The percussionist and singer Eric Frazier is joined by plenty of talented players for these 12 cultured and varied tunes.
“That Panther Woman” starts the listen with Frazier’s soulful pipes alongside Isaac Ben Ayala’s warm keys and Lonnie Plaxico’s funky bass for the groove filled opener, and “Everything You Got To Give” follows with John Cooksey’s meticulous drumming that suits the spirited backing vocals of the uplifting delivery.
Elsewhere, the flowing melody of “You Don’t Know” benefits much from Wayne Jeffrey’s warm guitar and Frazier’s well timed congas, while “Chili Pepper” is full of rhythmic ideas that welcomes a frisky rhythm section and infectious chorus.
Closer to the end, “In The Same Place” makes great use of Gene Ghee’s bright sax prowess amid the breezy mood, and “Fu Man Shu” exits with an animated, timeless jazz appeal that blends the dynamic sax with lively keys and stylish singing from Frazier.
A really fun listen that incorporates African ideas, Afro-Caribbean beats and straight forward jazz bursts, every track here is a delight.
Travels well with: Shawn Maxwell- J Town Suite; Ronny Smith- Struttin’