While not exactly commissioned by Thomas Jefferson, Wolff & Clark’s Expedition does explore a few exciting uncharted waters and come up with some clever discoveries on this trio disc that has Michael Wolff (who made his name with guys like Tjader, Adderley and Rollins), Mike Clarke (of Headhunters fame), and Chip Jackson/b (who’s gigged with everyone from Elvin Jones to Billy Taylor). A surprisingly successful take of The Beatles’ “Come Together” has some fun blue grooves, while hard bop favorites like “Mercy, Mercy Mercy” and “Song For My Father” have fresh sounds and stylings. The gents also compose some of the material here, with “Flat Out” featuring a sauntering shuffle and “ARP” happily chirping along like a prairie dog. Chip Jackson’s bass is featured well on his own “Is There A Jackson in the House” while the whole band gels like the rapids on Nat Adderley’s gospelish “Hummin’.” Good comfort food music, making you feel like you’re cruising with the current in the Mississippi with your canoe.
Random Act Records