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Buddy Guy & Junior Wells – Going Back To Acoustic – Pure Pleasure Records 180g Vinyl
“…These classic songs are matched by an impeccable re-master of the kind of recording which constantly reminds me exactly just why I own a turntable. Fantastic transparency, a jaw dropping presentation of rough hewed vocal dynamic shifts and the kind of inner details that scream ‘intimacy’ recreates the atmospheric roots of the Deep South – making this a must own record from a sonic perspective as well.” Recording = 9.5/10; Music = 9/10 – Reuben Parry, Hi-Fi+, Issue 45
Dave Brubeck Trio, Gerry Mulligan: Blues Roots – Pure Pleasure Records 180g Vinyl
Although this is a blues-oriented set, there is plenty of variety in tempos and grooves. The 1968 Quartet featured the leader/pianist, baritone saxophonist Gerry Mulligan, bassist Jack Six and drummer Alan Dawson. The repertoire on this LP ranges from “Limehouse Blues” (which is not really a blues) to “Things Ain’t What They Used To Be” and several originals. These songs are average for 1968, but the soloing is remarkable and the musicians here are some of the best. “Journey” is a remarkably beautiful piano ballad, while “Blues Roots” narrowly rises above in it’s epic scope, and over-the-top ending. It’s probably my favourite song here. But, “Broke Blues” is also exceptional. This one, along with “Cross Ties” and “Blues Roots”, are fairly progressive, drawing as much from post bop as blues and traditional Jazz, pushing toward avante-garde. G. Skate/S. Yannow
Keb’ Mo’ – Keb’ Mo’ Pure Pleasure Records
Keb’ Mo’s self-titled debut is an edgy, ambitious collection of gritty country blues. Keb’ Mo’ pushes into new directions, trying to incorporate some of the sensibilites of the slacker revolution without losing touch of the tradition that makes the blues the breathing, vital art form it is. His attempts aren’t always successful, but his gutsy guitar playing and impassioned vocals, as well as his surprisingly accomplished songwriting, make Keb’ Mo’ a debut to cherish.
Milt Jackson : Sunflower – Pure Pleasure Records 180g Vinyl
Recorded over two days in December of 1972 at Rudy Van Gelder’s Englewood, New Jersey home studio, vibraphonist Milt Jackson’s Sunflower is the first and best of his three albums for Creed Taylor’s CTI imprint. (And one of the finest offerings on the label.) With a core band consisting of Herbie Hancock (playing electric and acoustic piano), bassist Ron Carter, drummer Billy Cobham, trumpeter Freddie Hubbard, drummer/percussionist Ralph McDonald, and guitarist Jay Berliner. A chamber orchestra exquisitely arranged and conducted by Don Sebesky adorns the session as well.
