Gary Bartz's first studio recording in twelve years sees the 83 year old alto icon transforming soul classics by Curtis Mayfield, Anita Baker, Patti LaBelle and DeBarge into meditative jazz infused tapestries that transcend genre boundaries. At least that's what the blurb says and they're probably right.
The alto player, I'm told, invested $400k in the recording which, looking at the quantity and quality of the musicians, is probably about right. Was the money invested wisely?
Bartz is undoubtedly a front runner on his instrument. His playing beautifully lyrical, his technique as fluent as any ten lesser mortals combined. Plus a supporting cast of big hitters - instrumentally and vocally - is a recipe for perfection. However, perfection isn't always perfect. You may love Coffee Creams but try eating a whole box of them in one go and you'll probably never eat another one again.
Damage Control is a bit like that. It's the first volume in Bartz's trilogy the Eternal Tenure of Sound and, much as I love it, I wont be immediately pressing the repeat button although I will be dipping into it whenever I feel the need to relax and to acknowledge it for the masterpiece that it is. Lance
Release date: Sept. 26.
Fantasy; One Hundred Ways; In Search of my Heart/Love Surrounds us Everywhere; The Makings of You; You Bring me Joy; You Are my Starship; Slow Jam; If Only You Knew; Biggest Part of me; Love me in a Special Way
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