John Cocuzzi takes jazz to its pre-modern roots here with a swinging session in which he plays piano, vibes, B3 and even sings along with Frank Cocuzzi/dr, Paul Keller/b, Jerry Krahn/g, Dan Levinson/ts-cl and Kevin McKendree/ag. He goes eight to the bar like a river boat gambler on “Swanee River Boogie” and strides into Kansas City with a bluesy swagger as he swings on “That’s Alright.” Levinson’s clarinet evokes the King of Swing on his solos, and just when you things are turning into a jumping juke joint, you get a glowing read of “Come Sunday” and a sublime “Nina Never Knew.” Brother Frank delivers a cozy read of “They Say It’s Wonderful” while the band takes you to the Cumberland Gap on a folksy trip on “Tennessee Waltz.” These guys could swing the Kenny G songbook!
Eller Soul Records