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Lynn Seaton Trio: Puttin' on the Ritz
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The CD hits the ground running with "Bernie's Tune," which sets the tone of superb musicianship, warmed with humor. One example is Seaton's primal scatting on "Moanin'," which brings a smile as well as additional respect for his versatility. "Mood Indigo" is taken at a luxurious, stretching-cat tempo with a dollop of sly humor, the title track is alternately serious and whimsical as it races along (love Joel Fountain's commentary), and even "Gone with the Wind" is painted in lighter colors after Stephen Anderson's intriguing reharmonization.
One of Milt Hinton's five favorite bassists, Seaton's formidable gifts are always in evidence without dominating the music. He's created a seamless trio with superb chops and giant ears which tackles his creative arrangements with imagination and glee. For example, in "Nature Boy," the dynamics build and calm the tune with a near-organic inevitability. This group also liberates the spare, beautiful melody of "Londonderry Aire" from its often gooey sentimentality when sung as "Danny Boy." The session comes to a jubilant end with "Back Home in Indiana," leaving this listener wanting more.
Puttin' on the Ritz delivers its textured program with warmth, wit and soul, and also swings from beginning to end. It's a rare and happy combination. Highly recommended.
Track Listing
Bernie's Tune; Gone with the Wind; Mood Indigo; Pretending; Nature Boy; Moanin'; Londonderry Aire; Puttin' on the Ritz; Back Home in Indiana.
Personnel
Lynn Seaton
bassLynn Seaton: bass, vocal; Stephen Anderson: piano; Joel Fountain: drums.
Album information
Title: Puttin' on the Ritz | Year Released: 2005 | Record Label: Nagel Heyer Records