The Royal Chase
Fresh Grass, 2020
8/10
An outfit spearheaded by drummer/percussionist Scott Kettner, on this outing Nation Beat bring a wealth of brass to a listen that offers both original and classics with no shortage of grooves, funk and liveliness.
“Forró De Dois Amigos” starts the listen and immediately makes an impression with flowing brass alongside plenty of cultured rhythm, and “Moró Omim Má” follows with an Ilú from Pitoco De Aira that complements the frisky yet cautious landscape.
Near the middle, “Paper Heart” benefits greatly from Rob Curto’s keys amid the highly melodic and emotive delivery, while “Ciranda For Lia” recruits plenty of jazz ideas and Latin influences in spades. “Big Chief”, one of the album’s best, then bounces with a punchy execution that’s danceable and infectiously fun.
Deeper cuts include the soft, expressive vocals from Carolina Mama (one of the few tracks with singing) on the dreamy “Algunas Cantan”, and “Roseira do Norte” finishes the listen and shuffles with a festive spirit where precise and playful interaction between the esteemed musicians exits on a very high note.
Along with Mariel Bildsten (trombone), Mark Collins (trumpet), Paul Carlson (sax and horn arrangements) and Joe Correia (sousaphone), as well as many guests, Kettner steers the party into a swingin’, funk, jazz and blues friendly outing that you won’t hesitate to hit repeat on.
Travels well with: Brownout- Berlin Sessions; Diplomats Of Solid Sound- A Higher Place