Living Standards II
Dropzone, 2025
8/10
The revered drummer Karl Latham brings us some fusion jazz tunes, where east coast legends like Henry Hey, Roger Squitero and Wolfgang Lackerschmid are in attendance for the covers.
The very atypical version of “Break On Through (To The Other Side)” starts with Squitero’s fluid percussion and Hey’s playful keys, and “Rock And Roll Woman” follows with Stein’s flowing guitar that aligns with Latham’s drumming acrobatics that add much intrigue.
“Layla” and “Matte Kudasal” arrive in the middle. The former opens with a drum solo before the frisky rhythm section enters, while the latter finds a dreamy place to reside via the radiant guitar and cautious drumming.
Close to the end, “Magic Carpet Ride” isn’t lacking any rhythm or animated spirit, and “Carry On” exits in 2 parts, where plenty of classic rock ideas unfold amid the player’s inimitable skills.
The 7 timeless tracks get a fresh coat of paint, where they retain the greatness of the originals but with tweaks here and there (the opening tune even has vibraphone courtesy of Lackerschmid), for a thriving jazz-rock and fusion experience.
Travels well with: Joe Syrian Motor City Jazz Octet- Secret Message; Randy Weinstein- Harmonimonk