I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, XYZ, from Jeff Richman and it's quite good. Opening with title track, XYZ, Jeff Richman on guitar is joined by top players, George Whitty on keys, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums and Jimmy Haslip on bass. With the incredible duo of Haslip and Colaiuta laying down a clean, funky rhythm, Richman weaves a lush flowing melody. Strong opener. On Optamystical, Richman slowly builds depth and breadth on a McLaughlin type guitar pattern paired with Whitty on keys not unlike Beck and Hammer, before breaking into a more melodic refrain with exceptional drum work underpinnings by Colaiuta. Excellent! Left Right Here is low slung with a cool yet funky bass line and Richman laying down a smooth melody over Whitty's horn like keyboard work. Richman's lead lines are creative and flowing. With it's jagged rhythm underpinnings, Likewise, is another really nice track with Mitchell Formen on keys and with Colaiuta adding in off/add rhythm drumming that gives the track so much depth. I really do love his style. Wrapping the release is laid back, She's Got To Be Somewhere. Scott Kinsey on keys and Richman share the lead workcreate a nicely woven envelope of sound with excellent drum/ bass interplay by Haslip and Colaiuta. This is a really solid release with a boat load of cool, fusion style music.
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