Though he’s no longer with the MG’s, Stax fixture Booker T. Jones can still make the Hammond moan and groove like no one else. This latest disc has him putting together a bunch of different styles and feelings, from throwback R&B to modern nods to hip hop. He seems most comfortable when left to his visceral center, as pulsating cookers like “Fun” and “Feel Good” stick to the ribs like dry rub ribs. He gets in touch with his inner low rider with a cooking “66 Impala” with guests Sheila E. and conga specialist Poncho Sanchez, while sounding a bit out of water with “All Over the Place” with Luke James and “Gently” with Anthony Hamilton. Half the time in the pocket, and the other half looking for the bank shot to get in.
Stax Records