Here’s a fifteen year old recording that’s been hidden in the netherworld for awhile, but like the pearl of great price in the Bible, it was finally found and it’s definitely worth the wait.
Richard Lanham has been in the entertainment world for decades, being in doo-wop groups like The Drifters and Speedo and The Cadillacs. Somewhere between groups, the sandy toned tenor put together an incredibly hip and creative jazz album with a hot band under the direction of tenor saxist Jerry Weldon. Sometimes it’s a full septet that is behind the enthusiastic vocalist, and other times a trio, but no matter what the environment, Lanham sounds like he’s giving it all he’s got, and he’s got a lot to give
A wondrous “Stardust” opens with a luminous intro, while the pop dittie “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do” has a deep and romantic feel. He creates sparks on ricocheting rhythms on the title track and “I’m Beginning to See the Light” and melts like a church candle on “Unforgettable” and “I Wish You Love.” This guy is as fresh as an ocean spray-give him a try and you’ll want MORE MORE MORE!!!