Brian Ho
by
Neilsjazz
Brian Ho’s “Organic” is an outstanding outing featuring a perfect mixture of groove and swing, old and new, Veteran and newcomer. It features the writing and arranging of the Organist leader and still pays tribute to the history of Jazz with renderings of Horace Silver’s “Song for My Father” and a very unique rendition of Ellington’s “In a Sentimental Mood.” From the first track the listener is pulled into the magic and chemistry of the band and the music with an upbeat 3/4 groove on Ho’s modern original “Tres Ritmo”. Veteran Calvin Keys shows his prowess in this setting both with his melodies and improvisations as well as the accompaniment- interplay with the organ. The drum work of Lorca Hart is impressive throughout as the disc delves into various feels and danceable grooves. Oscar Pangilinan adds another epic voice to the mix with his Tenor Saxophone solos reminiscent of Stanley Turentine in the soul-jazz era. With the group’s rendition of Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab,” Ho shows he is in tune with the world of popular music and not afraid to incorporate this medium into his overall vision. The variety throughout the entire disc is sure to offer the jazz purist, the modernist, and the non-musician something to sink their teeth into, and move their feet to. Five stars for the group and for the music therein.
-Neil Kelly (Jazz Musician and Educator)
