Let There Be Light
MBP/Groove!, 2021
8/10
A multi-instrumentalist, composer and educator, Dr. Mike Bogle is in the company of Buddy Mohmed on bass, Harrell Bosarge behind the drum kit, Andy Barrus taking up steel pan/percussion and Dana Sudborough navigating vibraphone, as they flesh out plenty of grooves across these 6 contagious tunes.
“Voyager’s Dream” starts the listen with hypnotic keys as frisky drumming enters the groove filled climate that brings plenty of Latin flavor to the equation, and the title track follows with much atmosphere as Bogle’s wordless vocals add much character to the bass and vibraphone solos.
In the middle, “Eat Your Vitamins” brings Bogle’s trombone prowess to the funk flavored and stylish landscape, while “Positano” showcases some of the best piano work amid dreamy vibraphone that you won’t forget anytime soon.
“The Chicken” lands near the end and illustrates incredible bass playing alongside steel pan and a dynamic, busy execution, and an alternate take of “Let There Be Light” exits the listen with an instrumental that again reminds us of just how much talent is present.
Bogle has enjoyed an exceptional career both in collaborations and his own work, and this installment with an exceptional rhythm section proves to be one of his best, which is no easy feat considering his work up to this point.
Travels well with: Dave Miller Trio- The Mask-erade Is Over; Schapiro 17- Human Qualities