Speaking Of Jazz (East To West Coast)
MKJ, 2021
8/10
Listen to Speaking Of Jazz (East To West Coast)
The veteran drummer Manny Kellough is in fine company here as he turns in 9 standards and 2 originals that sure aren’t short on solos, swingin’ fun and sharp melodies, where they interpret legends like Woody Shaw, Charlie Chaplin and others.
“Generosity” starts the listen with warm horns and crisp drumming, as William Knowles lends his mature piano playing to the soulful opener, and “Secret Love” follows with Wes ‘Sug’ Biles’ playful bass complementing Antonio Parker’s radiant sax amid a bop friendly climate.
Elsewhere, “I Thought About You” showcases Julian Hipkins’ expressive singing in the uptempo version of a Johnny Mercer tune, while “Smile” has Hipkins singing fluidly alongside Michael Thomas’ strategic brass in the cozy landscape. “When I Fell In Love” then brings Ashley Kellough in on vocals for her first time ever, where the charming pipes suit the timeless jazz flavor superbly.
Near to the end, the romantic “East Of The Sun” places Matt Clark on piano and Gary Brown on bass, as Azure McCall’s stunning pipes are front and center, and “Foggy Day” exits the listen on an upbeat interpretation of the Gershwin tune that produces some glorious vocal scatting.
Kellough’s resume is an impressive one that includes playing drums with Ray Charles, The Rolling Stones and many others, and even though his vast skill anchors these tunes, he allows the esteemed players to shine, too, across the spirited and infectious listen.
Travels well with: Gerry Eastmen Trio- Trust Me: Alexis Parsons- Alexis