Weekend In London
Provogue, 2020
8/10
Recorded in 2019 at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, the legendary George Benson offers us his first live album in 30 years, and he’s picked an intimate performance where he draws from his vast catalog of agile jazz tunes.
“Give Me The Night” starts the listen with Benson’s playful vocals and rhythmic guitars on the groove friendly setting, and “Turn Your Love Around” follows with well timed keys as much soul enters the retro-rocker.
Deeper into the night, “I Hear You Knocking” flows with timeless blues where backing vocals add much to the melodic landscape, while “Feel Like Makin’ Love” finds a romantic place to reside, where strategic brass and vocal scatting makes an impression. “Don’t Let Me Be Lonely”, an album standout, then burns slower with some R&B flavor entering the rich atmosphere of lounge jazz ideas.
Closer to the end, “Love Ballad” moves swiftly with strings present amid soaring vocals, and “Cruise Control” exits the listen with exciting and precise funk that’s executed in a way that no one else could replicate.
Though only 250 lucky people were actually at this show, thankfully we can all experience it here with incredible sound quality. If you’re already a Benson fan, there’s no questioning that this is essential, and for the first time listener, it’s actually a good starting point that showcases Benson’s guitar grooves and versatile singing perfectly.
Travels well with: Grant Green- Funk In France; John Scofield- Swallow Tales