James Taylor Quartet

New World

While James Taylor may be considered a master of the Hammond, he says he was inspired to make this piano-based album by the baby grand piano that he was storing for a friend. There is, however, plenty of Hammond, clavinet, and Fender Rhodes here to go around. While this band may be tight with their studio recordings, I think this leans more toward smooth jazz than on their more upbeat and interesting live releases. (Check out the albums "Live at the Jazz Cafe" or "Whole Lotta Live".) There is still some mildly interesting stuff here such as the opening track which features Gareth Lockrane on flute. The best track most definitely is "Hotwire" with its quick horn bursts and high-hat taps. - Rebecca Ruth.