This intriguing set for pianist
George Cables is in some ways a throwback to the 1970s. Although he has often played hard bop in recent times, in the '70s he was more eclectic, so he is heard on both acoustic and electric pianos. The music (all his originals except for the spiritual "Go Down Moses") is soulful and sometimes funky, hinting at 1970s fusion and pop in spots while still swinging.
Cables is heard with two different rhythm sections (either bassist
Abraham Laboriel and drummer
Peter Erskine or bassist
Alphonso Johnson and drummer
Vinny Coliauta) with guest appearances from
Bennie Maupin on bass clarinet and altoist
Gary Bartz. This small label release is worth searching for. ~ Scott Yanow