Best known for his years with The Yellowjackets, Bob Mintzer shows his alter ego here in leading a big band that tips the hat to the soul and Motown sound of the 70s. The 17 band includes all stars such as Bob Sheppard/as-fl, John Daversa/tp Russell Ferrante/p and the rhythm section is quite flexible and funky as they display on pieces such as Mintzer’s own title track. Bassist Bill Lee delivers some hip licks pm the rapid fire “Land of Oak” and Wayne Shorter’s “Elegant People,” while Afro Sheen classics such as The Isley Brother’s “It’s Your Thing” and Sly & The Family Stone’s “Sing A Simple Song” include hip chugging guitar work by Ray Obiedo and a relentless back beat by drummer William Kennedy. Mintzer gets a chance to solo on his own “Civil War” and “Truth Sp oken Here,” but he also passes around the honors, with Sheppard’s alto on “Yeah Yeah Yeah” and Scott Wendholt on “I Thank You” getting some nice chops to show off. A danceable disc if you’ve got the right moves!
Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild