Changed Lives
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The Texas drummer Tim Solook returns with a 5th solo album, where the original tunes welcome Paul Chester, David Craig, Warren Sneed and Andrew Lienhard and take inspiration from the past 4 years.
“Rhythm Suite #1” starts the listen with indeed plenty of rhythm via the intricate drumming and “January” follows with soaring sax from Sneed and Lienhard’s dreamy keys.
Halfway through, “I’m Not Sayin’ Nothin’” recruits plenty of funk for the melodic gestures, while “Old Friends” benefits much from Craig’s precise bass and Solook’s agile drumming that’s rich with texture.
“Steve Gadd” and “Twenty Three” exit the listen. The former uses rapid fire drumming that mesmerizes us, and the latter finishes with Chester’s meticulous guitar amid the cultured energy.
A fusion affair that embraces smooth jazz, funk jazz and progressive ideas, Solook and his company make instrumental jazz that is among the best of its kind today.
Travels well with: MOTU- Acceding To The Apocalypse; Madlen Keys- Event Horizon