Frank Gambale - Thinking Out Loud (1995)

On this JVC CD, guitarist Frank Gambale plays in a surprisingly clear tone, avoiding rock (except for the closing "My Little Viper") and at times sounding unexpectedly close to George Benson. Keyboardist Otmaro Ruiz also plays creatively on his three appearances but unfortunately the weak Gambale compositions (funky but without soul or any worthwhile melodies) and the remarkably dull automatic pilot drumming of Dave Weckl makes this into a fairly routine set. Next time Gambale should apply his fine guitar playing to much better material; he still has a lot of potential. -- Scott Yanow