Arrival
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The studio guitar hero and film composer Michael O’Neill is in fine company for these adventurous jazz songs that flirt with the blues in exciting ways.
“Writ Of Habeus Corpuscle” opens the listen with O’Neill’s fluid guitar lines alongside Land Richards’ agile drumming, and “Smoke On The Water (And Beyond)” exits with John Leftwich’s animated bass that suits the grooves and cozy climate.
Halfway through, “Opposing Views” welcomes soulful singing amid Ronnie Foster’s meticulous organ, while “Yet Another Blues” uses O’Neill’s spirited guitar playing for an indeed bluesy landscape of warmth.
Residing close to the end, “Can’t Buy Me Love” is a frisky moment that makes great use of the stylish rhythm section for a fun take on a classic, and “Angles” exits with no lack of rhythm via the meticulous guitar progressions and a very rich, collaborative effort from the rest of the crew.
Lorie V. Moore and Sadie O'Neill’s powerful pipes are used flawlessly here, and Tom Keenlyside’s sparing but effective sax won’t go unnoticed either. Together with O’Neill’s 4+ decades of experience, they make for a timeless jazz and blues experience.