Seconds
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
An aptly titled sophomore album, Chicago’s Ben Tatar is back with a 2nd family record, where themes of food are fleshed out with 33 musicians on hand for the delicious and satisfying listen.
“Jambalaya” starts the listen with warm brass as Tatar’s smooth pipes guide the funky, jazzy fun that welcomes soulful backing vocals, and “Peanut Butter!” follows with plenty of lively rhythm populating the playful and cultured climate that welcomes flute from Corbin Andrick.
At the mid-point, “The Breakfast Song (Start It Right)” showcases Mike Bruno’s precise drumming amid a calmer tone that benefits much from Tatar’s glockenspiel, while “Bake Me A Cake” is a fuller offering of trumpets, trombone and saxophones making for a swingin’ good time.
Arriving near the end, “Thinking Of Pizza” is as universally enjoyable as its subject matter thanks to the flowing melodies and “Sweet Nectarine” exits the listen with an old time feel that includes Al Scorch’s banjo alongside punchy brass and Tatar’s inviting pipes.
Included among Tatar’s help are the LowDown Brass Band and the funk trio, Spare Parts, and together with Tatar’s timeless and playful vision it makes for a very diverse and irresistible listening experience that goes well perfectly with your favorite dish.
Travels well with: Sharon, Lois & Bram- Best Of The Best Live; The Laurie Berkner Band- Let’s Go