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There’s something about Hammond B-3 organ trios that reminds me of spring and summer, lounging on the back porch with a cool drink. Perhaps, it’s the “burbling brook” sound some players get out of their speakers – whatever it is, the chemical reaction in my brain is quite positive.
For his 5th release on the Posi-Tone label, “Golden Child“, Jared Gold returns to the Trio setting that served him well on his 2009 CD, “Supersonic.” Guitarist Ed Cherry is back from that date while Quincy Davis (who appeared on Gold’s previous Posi-Tone release) mans the drum chair.The program ranges from “pop” tunes, such as “Wichita Lineman” and “I Can See Clearly Now” to jazz standards like “In A Sentimental Mood” and “When It’s Sleepy Time Down South” to 5 pieces from the leader. The disk opens with an ultra-funky version of Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come“, a piece that sets the tone for the entire album. Davis is a responsive and explosive drummer, doesn’t hold back reacting to the soloist. Cherry, who has worked with a slew of great musicians (like Dizzy Gillespie, Henry Threadgill and Hamiett Bluiett), is an equal partner in the music, either doubling the song’s theme or stretching out on a solo. His lines blend jazz licks (a touch of Wes Montgomery octaves show up on the title track) with a strong blues feel. This is no “lounge” band; every one digs in and gives his all. One can enjoy the subtle shadings of Gold’s “Pensa Em Mim“, groove on the “second-line” feel of “14 Carat Gold” or bask in the sweet glow of “…Sleepy Time...” Excellent solos from both Gold and Cherry as well as simple-sounding yet masterful percussion. The trio’s take on Jmmy Webb’s “..Lineman” is quite funky while remaining true to the melody and mood of the original. Cherry’s rhythm guitar work is exemplary while Davis lets loose during the organ solo – then, the drummer gives the guitarist a real “fatback” feel beneath his short yet satisfying solo. “Times Up” moves (rather successfully) into Larry Young territory, with Davis’s fiery drumming pushing, urging, coaxing his cohorts forward.
Each one of Jared Gold’s Posi-Tone recordings has something to recommend it but “Golden Child” is, arguably the best. Even in a trio setting, the program is his most varied. You’ll like the way the Trio communicates, how their solos are substantial (and not just space fillers) and, for these ears, Gold’s handsome “burbling” organ. To find out more, go to www.jaredgoldb3.com.
