Soul Food- Cooking With Maceo
The Funk Garage, 2020
9/10
Listen to Soul Food- Cooking With Maceo
The legendary Maceo Parker returns with his first album in 8 years, and he’s made it worth the wait as contributions from Ivan Neville, Nikki Glaspie, Tony Hall and plenty of local stars grace these classics and originals in the funk friendly landscape.
“Cross The Track” starts the listen with plenty of soulful energy as Parker’s sax prowess leads the funk filled fun, and “Just Kissed My Baby” continues setting with strong vocal work, spirited guitar work and bright brass that’s never short on rhythm.
In the middle, “Hard Time” offers an introspective and dynamic instrumental where the trumpet really shines, while Aretha Franklin’s “Rock Steady” recruits backing female vocals to complement the dance friendly melodies as Parker uses his voice like an instrument. “Right Place Wrong Time”, one of the album’s best, then swaggers with intricate guitar solos and timeless funk as Parker’s sax work is unparalleled.
“Other Side Of The Pillow” and “Grazing In The Grass” exit the listen, where the former, a Prince tune, glides with a New Orleans flavor that’s plenty rich, and the former finishes groove friendly with plenty of warmth and vitality for an artist who is 77 years old.
If you’ve been following this far, you know it’s Parker’s 16th album, and it’s hard not to imagine the spirit of James Brown and Ray Charles in these tunes as Parker’s inimitable vision and old school funk approach sounds better than ever.
Travels well with: Lettuce- Crush; Grant Green- Funk In France