Da Bang
Warner, 2022
9/10
An accomplished debut solo album from the drummer and songwriter Gregory Hutchinson, the 15 tracks here welcome some serious talent to the rich and diverse climate.
'“Straight From The Heart” opens the listen with Leona Berlin and Karriem Riggins along for the dreamy, soulful atmosphere that spotlights Hutchinson’s drumming acrobatics, and “What’s Best For Us” follows with PJ on hand and no lack of rhythm alongside the expressive singing that comes with an infectious energy.
In the middle, Vernon Reid and Kameron Corvet are in attendance for the rock focused “My Turn Now”, that'‘s loud and unpredictable, while “Last Time We Gon Be Polite” welcomes Christian Scott’s pipes to the hip-hop meets chamber rock ideas.
“New Dawn”, the album’s best, lands near the end, and benefits from Liselotte Östblom’s flowing vocals amid the pop filled melodies, and “Fly Away” exits with Nicholas Payton present for the free jazz exploration that makes great use of the meticulous drums and soaring brass.
Hutchinson’s resume is stacked with work that includes luminaries like Roy Hargrove, Dianne Reeves and Wynton Marsalis, to name a few, and this excellent solo outing is another step in the direction of legendary status from the multi-instrumentalist.
Travels well with: The Cold Stares- Voices; Ivan Neville- Touch My Soul