Roots- Tales Of The Urban Yoda
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
Listen to Roots- Tales Of The Urban Yoda
The Toronto resident and drummer Joe Bowden is well versed in grooves and funk sounds, and here the veteran musician injects plenty of jazz flavor, too, as he gets help on saxophone, trumpet, keyboards and bass.
“Doodlin’” starts the listen percussively strong and with glowing keys from Robi Botos in a soulful and swift display that builds into a frenzied fusion of funk and jazz, and “Groovin’ High” follows with warm horns guiding the laid back climate.
Near the middle, “Second Skin” is a bright and punchy delivery of timeless jazz ideas, while “The Golden Rule” flows with acrobatic drumming, spirited keys and strategic brass where a solo from Luis Deniz makes a large impression. “Jazz Days”, one of the album’s best, then lays down intricate textures with both adventurousness and restraint from the esteemed cast.
“All For You” and “Bustin’ Loose” exit the listen, where the former is an upbeat and fascinating album highlight, and the latter exhibits a dynamic rhythm that finishes the record on a very high note.
Bowden has a glowing resume that includes touring with Salome Bey, and working alongside Dave Young and Jackie Richardson, among many others. Consistently a busy artist, he’s most recently been playing drums in a residency, and this 4th album from the seasoned musician showcases his influences from Herbie Hancock and James Brown in a very exciting and unique landscape.
Travels well with: Dave Young Quartet- Ides Of March; Doxas Brothers- The Circle