Search - Freddie Roach :: My People

A real dilemma for potential buyers

Dr.D.Treharne | Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom | 05/06/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Here's a problem. This excellently 20 bit remastered album, originally recorded in 1967 for Prestige Records contains some of the best Freddie Roach material that's available.The dilemma is that at just over 30 minutes it might be difficult to justify expending the asking price of this Japanese import. Add to that the fact that the title track has not aged at all well and the worthwhile stuff clocks in at around 26 minutes."My People(Soul People)" is an attempt to copy the style of Benny Golson's "Killer Joe" - but it doesn't work.All the other tracks make up for it. With a basic trio of Roach, Eddie Wright (guitar) and Eddie Gladden (drums) there's a mix of styles and input from the 5 piece horn section. Outstanding tracks are "Mas Que Nada" which has an interesting interplay between organ, soprano sax and euphonium, and "Drunk" where Roach plays both piano and organ.All the other tracks are good value - but it may be difficult to reconcile the cost against the playing time. Perhaps one to buy as a very special treat!"