Never one to disappoint, mercurial guitarist John
Scofield emerges from the studio with another jazzy
gem, “This Meets That.”
Partners-in-crime Steve Swallow on bass and Bill
Stewart on drums reunite with their former trio compatriot
to hold down the essence of rich grooves and
melodies.
All things Scofield are present: heavy blues influence,
advanced harmonic crunchiness, stylistic fusion and
infectious rhythms. He even invites a flawless four-piece
horn section featuring heavies Roger Rosenberg on
baritone saxophone and bass clarinet, Lawrence Feldman
on tenor saxophone and flutes, Jim Pugh on trombone
and John Swana on trumpet and flugelhorn. Title track
“The Low Road,” and the sophisticated “Pretty Out”
are a testament to Scofield’s arranging abilities and the
talent in the horn section.
Although the arrangements are all Scofield’s, he
includes a couple of covers and truly makes them his
own. “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones
and traditional folk song popularized by The Animals,
“House of the Rising Sun” are stylized to near-harmonic
perfection. The latter also features jazz guitar legend Bill
Frisell. Demonstrating his omnivorous taste for music,
Scofield also includes a beautiful, laid-back rendition of
country-western standard “Behind Closed Doors.”
In short, the album kills from beginning to end. With
obvious influences from Miles Davis, Phil Lesh and Herbie
Hancock, Scofield shows what legends are made of. As
a special bonus, Scofield has released a trio version of
“Trio Blues,” excluding the horn section, available only
on iTunes.
Download (don’t steal): “Down D” by John Scofield