ADAM
LEVY
BUTTERMILK CHANNEL
2001 Lost Wax Music
"In
recent years there has been a welcome resurgence
in the form of the classic jazz organ trio.
Adam Levy has assembled a delightful trio here.
The title track, 'Buttermilk Channel,' sets
the pace. Levy's sort of 'twangy' picked guitar
is reminiscent of Bill Frisell in both tone
and texture. With Wollesen on brushes, the tune
kicks back and eases its way along on a loping
groove. Organist Goldings has been getting a
lot of attention lately, and rightly so. His
command of the sometimes-unwieldy Hammond B-3
is sure and melodic. This cat is so musical!
"'That's
All She Wrote' is a gentle Latin tune highlighted
by Wollesen's tasty cymbal work. 'I Guess' is
a slow bluesy ballad in the 60's mold. Where
many guitarists would fill up the space, Levy
is notable for how few notes he plays. His solos
are unhurried, unfolding over the course of
the song. 'Dear John is a funky tune where Frisell's
influence is really felt. At times Levy's playing
may be a bit too close to Frisell's, but this
is not a bad thing. Levy is a tasteful player
who is extremely lyrical in his approach. 'Orange
You Glad' is a slow, funky shuffle that harks
back to Booker T and other 60's organ groups,
while 'Sphere of Influence' is a slow, walking
jazz tune that keeps to the same style.
"While
the music here never rises above laid back,
it is very delightful for what it is. The musicianship
is top notch and the playing tasteful. Recommended
for those looking for a slow groove organ trio."
—jazzreview.com
