Thursday, September 25, 2008

CD of the Day - "Robin Kenyatta: Stompin' at the Savoy"

CD of the Day
Robin Kenyatta: "Stompin' at the Savoy" (Wounded Bird) 2008
Originally produced for Michael Cuscuna for the Atlantic label, back in 1974, the album opens with a kitsch fusion arrangement (that lasts only 2m27s and ends with an abrupt fade-out) by Eumir Deodato for the title track. Two other talented Brazilians took part of the proceedings: legendary drummer João Palma (in a rare apperance playing percussion on "Jessica") and former Keith Jarrett percussionist, Guilherme Franco, on "The Need to Smile".
The stellar cast also includes Dr. John, Ron Carter (playing both acoustic and electric bass), Bernard Purdie, Jimmy Knepper, Lew Soloff, Billy Harper, David Spinozza, Alphonse Mouzon, Larry Willis, Chuck Rainey, Ralph MacDonald and Tasha Thomas, among many others.
Despite the ups and downs of the repertoire, Kenyatta shines on alto sax, soprano sax and flute.

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