Freddie Roach differentiated himself from the legions of soul-jazz organists on his debut album,
Down to Earth. Many jazz organists played the instrument down and dirty, and while there's funk in
Roach's playing, his style is ultimately lighter than many of his peers, with clean, concise solos and chords. His backing trio -- guitarist
Kenny Burrell, tenor saxophonist
Percy France, and drummer
Clarence Johnston -- follows his lead, providing supple instrumental support that never loses sight of the groove. Furthermore,
Burrell and
France both have their chances to shine, contributing some nicely understated solos. Nevertheless,
Down to Earth remains
Roach's show; he wrote five of the six songs and his organ is at center stage on each number. The legato blues of "De Bug" is a terrific showcase for
Roach's elegantly funky style, while the sprightlier "Ahm Miz" proves that he can get gritty if he so chooses. But the signature of
Down to Earth is
Roach's tasteful bluesy grooves, which prove to be just as entertaining as the hotter styles of his Blue Note peers
Jimmy Smith and
John Patton.