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Ben Patterson: The Way of the Groove
ByTeaming up with guitarist Shawn Purcell, pianist/organist Harry Appelman, bassist Paul Henry and drummer Todd Harrison , and adding tenor saxophonist Luis Hernandez on four numbers, Patterson is primed and ready to go from the start. Opening on "Anniversary Patio," he nods to his twentieth wedding anniversary and an attendant home improvement with a propulsive, straight-time sizzler. "Here Now," appreciating the act of being present, approaches the order of the day from a different angle, dialing back the tempo, working with a weighted feel and inviting Purcell to step forward for a raunchy solo stand. Then there's "FLT," which completely fits its expanded "Funky Little Thing" designation; the heated "Stank Face," where Patterson dresses up with effects; "The Lucky One," a jaunty, Caribbean-inflected winner showcasing Henry and Appelman; and the amped-up title track, with room aplenty for horns and guitar to let loose.
Taking a moment apart from his band, Patterson introduces "What Happens Next?" with two minutes of unaccompanied solo work that sets the mood and emphasizes his gifts for emotional expression. Then the composition properthe longest on the album, at more than eight minutesdeftly balances reflection, curiosity and urgency, with Patterson and Hernandez personifying ecstasy in exchange. Following that standout, things come to a close with the slippery pocket play of "This and That" and the shuffling "Hangin.'" Delivering two head-turning leader dates in two years, Patterson has been quick to elevate his already impressive profile since retiring from a distinguished music career in the military. Here's to hoping he has more music on the way.
Track Listing
Anniversary Patio; Here Now; FLT; Stank Face; The Lucky One; The Way of the Groove; What Happens Next? (Intro); What Happens Next?; This and That; Hangin’.
Personnel
Ben Patterson
tromboneShawn Purcell
guitarLuis Hernandez
saxophone, tenorHarry Appelman
pianoPaul Henry
bassTodd Harrison
drumsAlbum information
Title: The Way of the Groove | Year Released: 2022 | Record Label: Origin Records
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Ben Patterson
Album Review
Dan Bilawsky
The Way of the Groove
Origin Records
Shawn Purcell
Harry Appelman
Paul Henry
Todd Harrison
Luis Hernandez
Patterson