Here’s a brilliant concept album delivered to sizzling perfection. Guitarist Dave Stryker “Celebrates the music of Stanley Turrentine” with ten songs associated with the wailing tenor icon. Even better, Stryker picks ten current tenor titans to show how different each voice can sound, even with the same backing as Stryker with the smoking team of Jared Gold/B3, McCLenty Hunter/dr and Mayra Casales/perc. The comparison of tones and styles is exhilarating! Houston Person smokes like a Cubano on “La Place Street” and Don Braden howls at the moon on the title track. Old buddy Steve Slagle puts down his usual alto and lets the bigger sax bop on “Side Steppin” and Eric Alexander sparkles on “Salt Song.” Chris Potter sounds inspired on a thrilling read of “Impressions” but it’s Jimmy Heath who steals the show, with a jaw droppingly warm read of “In A Sentimental Mood.” Every guest on this session shines, making you want to learn the tenor or at least grab a couple Turrentine albums and fall in love with jazz again. You’ll wear this one out!
Strike Zone Records