Trio
Thrift Girl, 2024
8/10
The guitarist and singer Andy Pratt finds himself in the company of Joe Pollcastro and Phil Gratteau for these 9 swing filled and timeless jazz tracks that pull from the lesser known American Songbook.
The warm and playful “Soon” starts the listen, where the Gershwin original carries much spirit and energy, and “Little White Lies” follows with Pratt’s bright vocals suiting Gratteau’s frisky drums.
Deeper into the listen, “Patricia” offers a rhythmic and textured climate that’s highly melodic, while “From This Moment On” is a bouncy and dance floor friendly album highlight packed with upbeat vocals, crisp drums and Policastro’s skilled bass.
Residing near the end, the more intimate ideas of “There’s Always Something There To Remind Me” is a thoughtful interpretation of the Burt Bacharach classic, and “Something Big”, another Bacharach tune, exits with an animated presence that’s clever and so precisely executed.
A listen that explores songs that we should all really be more familiar with, Pratt’s 20+ years of experience certainly are appreciated, and the mix of instrumental versus singing selections is strategically welcomed.
Travels well with: Sam Ross- Live At The Mira Room Vol. II; Dave Stryker Trio- Groove Street