Drummer
Jim Payne
performs bluesy material with his
traditional
yet forward-looking organ trio. Guitarist
John Scofield
sits in on the
blues
"Jabo"
and
Mike Clark
plays second drums on two numbers, but otherwise the music is interpreted by the trio of organist
Jerry Z
, guitarist
Bill Bickford
(who sometimes hints a bit at
Scofield
), and
Payne
. It is danceable, grooving, funky,
R&B-ish
, and full of the
without being overly predictable. While
Energie
can be played in the background at parties, it rewards close listenings too, for it is quite fun. The three core musicians clearly enjoy playing off each other, to the benefit of listeners. ~ Scott Yanow