Calvin Owens And His Orchestra - Another Concept (1998)

Tracklist

01 - Sawdust Alley
02 - Sunday Afternoon
03 - Song for Helse
04 - Porky Frog
05 - Listen to My Song
06 - Pat's Tune
07 - Your Love Is Gone
08 - Lick or Split
09 - Vincent Van Gogh
10 - Opus L. A.
11 - Bubbha

personnel :

Trumpet – Calvin Owens
Drums – Thierry Gutman
Guitar – Patrick Deltenre
Keyboards – Michael Blass
Soprano Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone – Jimmy Heath
Performer [Poet] – Thomas Meloncon
Reeds – Peter Vandendriesche

Calvin Owens has been known for his amazing ability of being able to move from a jazz to a blues feel in his music very freely and with great finesse. On this album he steers his musical vehicle towards the jazz side of the road and gives an exhibition of that part of the road less traveled and more challenging as an artist. "Sawdust Alley" opens up with a nice jazzy swing beat that is highly accented with some fantastic brass. There are some shining spots throughout the number as solos appear. The congas used in the Latin-flavored Jazz tune, "Sunday Afternoon," lend the song a strong dance rhythm. The chops from Patrick Deltenre, lead guitarist, are in the styling of George Benson and his unique dynamics and expression lend the song that extra touch of color. "Listen To My Song" is filled with creative sound effects and musical nuances that color a poem that is read and written by Thomas Meloncon. The female backup singers are a neat touch and give the song added depth and breadth. A truly unique piece. "Your Love Is Gone" falls into the realm of soulful expression with romantic connotations. The mood is set to turn down the lights and settle in with that special someone as they groove to the number. "Bubbha" is Jazz lounge music put out with a traditional feel and comfort. The big band quality shines through, with an additional personal touch that lends a certain charisma. The lead guitar and piano solos give a definite attraction to the piece, while the brass work fills in a finishing touch with emphasis. If one has grown to love Calvin Owens and his blues albums then they are guaranteed to find the area he is moving into a true joy. As with all of his prior recordings, the structure of the songs are complex and most importantly the material is always entertaining. This is certainly Another Concept that all will want to hear more of, and soon.~Larry Belanger