Elias Haslanger’s got an old school sound on his tenor, evoking audible images of Stanley Turrentine with his hip clipped notes and brawny tone. He’s got the gospel in his soul, even with his band being called “Church on Monday” and the service has definitely got people rolling in the aisles.
Recorded at The Gallery in Austin, Texas, this session has Haslanger with the congregation of Dr. James Polk/B3, Jake Langley/g, Scott Laningham/dr and Daniel Durham/b going through the hard bop hymnal of “ Watermelon Man,” “Song For My Father” and “Adam’s Apple” with solos by Haslnager, Langley and Polk raising the roof. Langley’s got the perfect mix of Wes Montgomery and Grant Green, strumming and picking on a spirit filled ”One For Daddy O” and bringing a chorus of “Amens” on “Misty.” The gospel groove is in the sermon on “Goin’ Down” and the crowd is ready to pass the plate on a gorgeous “In A Sentimental Mood.” You’ll leave this service with a smile on your face, ready for the Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting.
Cherrywood Records