Terrific soul-jazz from one of the Hammond masters
Christian Justin Shearn | Vestal, NY USA | 07/07/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Jack McDuff made his name in the early sixties by having one of the hottest combos specializing in the type of swingin' fatback soul-jazz so prevalent in the era. On his latest Concord release "Bringin' It Home", McDuff rekindles that good feeling by inviting old bandmates Red Holloway, George Benson and young lion Mark Whitfield for some great music. Things strike a joyous groove when the disc starts out with the Eddie Harris soul-jazz favorite "Cold Duck Time". Benson and Holloway state the theme in unison while the rhythm section of bassist Frank Gravis and drummer Grady Tate keep a tight groove. Benson churns out a solo recalling his earlier, funkier days, and Holloway heats up from the get go. Later on the disc the same band sans Gravis tackles a memorable "Summertime". George and Red carry the tune and have shimmering solos. According to the liners, before they rolled the tape, George said "We're gonna tear this one up!" and do they ever! George's imaginative cadenza at the close will make any detractors eat their words about him not choosing to play pure jazz in recent memory. "Pettin' The Cat" is the albums' closer. A funky blues featuring "The Heatin System", McDuff's working with the bonus of Red Holloway added to the front line. Other highlights include Jack playing piano on "After Hours", and a nod to George Benson as Mark Whitfield plays "This Masquerade" in a cooking mid tempo take. Up and coming alto saxophonist Andrew Beals has a gorgeous statement on the ballad "A Time For Love" playing with a soulful conviction that is hard to come by with young players these days. All in all everyone enjoys themselves on this fine date, indeed Bringin' It Home!"
Bluesy Jazz sound that feels really good
K. White | Charlotte, NC United States | 08/07/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Being from Kansas City, we love jazz and blues. I first heard "Summertime" on the radio one warm Saturday right about dusk and immediately knew I had to find this cd. I sat in my car hoping the DJ would reveal the artist and song title. I was in luck and quickly jotted the info in my palm - knowing a scrap paper may get lost. Unfortunately, the record store was all out and I had to order it, I should have come to Amazon. Anyway,when I played the cd for my husband, he too was hooked. He told me to check out some other Jack McDuff cds and here I am. I just had to share my thoughts since this one is pretty special if you like that sound that makes you want to kick back with a cold beer and just close your eyes and take it all in. Enjoy!!!"
Track Listings (9) - Disc #1