JOEY DEFRANCESCO

40

2011-10-18

On April 10, 2011 Joey DeFrancesco turned 40 years young and celebrated by giving us this musical gift. Joey who many could argue is the greatest living Hammond B3 organ player is joined by guitarist Rick Zunigar who lists his inspirations as the greats Wes Montgomery and Joe Pass. It is easy to say after just one listen to this disc that his mentors would be really proud. This CD also includes drummer Ramon Banda who spent many years with Poncho Sanchez and now records with his brother Tony as part of the Banda Brothers. This CD infuses, straight jazz, funk, blues and ballads giving his listeners something for all tastes. Joey also adds a rare vocal track "Gloria" a soft ballad dedicated to the love of his life. Although most track are Joey originals he does play homage to James Ingram on 100 Ways and Ray Charles on the classic I've Got A Woman. This CD may have played a little soft on the ballad side for me, but there is no disputing that Joey DeFrancesco is a musical gift. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

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