Due to the free jazz approach, it takes a minute before you realize that you are listening to the music of Curtis Mayfield. The Jazz Soul Seven has taken a closer look at Mayfield's repertoire and provided it with new arrangements that they have prepared for a jazz approach. The band consists largely of contemporaries of Mayfield such as pianist Russ Ferrante, trumpet player Wallace Rooney, guitarist
… Phil Upchurch and saxophonist Ernie Watts. Moreover, this company is supplemented by the presence of Master Henry Gibson, the percussionist who shared the stage with Mayfield for over seventeen years. The approach to the rhythms by drummer Terry Lyne Carrington and bassist Bob Hurst is striking. The soul grooves of yesteryear have been replaced by rousing jazz swing. Especially the flamboyant, uptempo guitar work of the now 71-year-old Upchurch stands out. The musicians have done their utmost to give a clear added value to Mayfield's music. Each song stands alone and makes it clear what the difference is between an adaptation and a cover. Jazz Soul Seven should reinterpret more work by soul artists. (AD)more