Search - John Patton :: Got a Good Thing Goin

Organ combo "got it going" on this groovy session.

Gerald L. Krug | Wauwatosa, WI USA | 02/26/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Here we are in 1966, with Blue Note's business starting its decline amidst falling interest, few interesting new artists, and the rise of abstract jazz with less mass appeal. Organist John Patton was one of the few artists recording commercially-oriented material for the label. This feel-good, groovy set is a fine example of accessible, high-quality cocktail lounge jazz.This session showcases the song-writing and playing skills of Mr. Patton teamed with versatile guitarist Grant Green. They co-wrote two foot-tapping tunes, both brisk tempo with tasty solos. Drummer Richard Landrum keeps it simple and catchy throughout. Changing times are noted by selection of songs popularized by Sam Cooke ("The Shake") and Marvin Gaye. The up-tempo rendition of Gaye's "Ain't That Peculiar" is the highlight of a strong session. Green tosses off variations on the melody with obvious joy and ease, then accents Patton's solo with perfect commentary. Patton's solo features fleet runs and varied sound effects that reaches a soaring climax.Grant Green is an under-appreciated guitarist who was comfortable in both the cocktail lounge as heard here and with the cutting-edge hard bop group. Search out a Blue Note classic album by Lee Morgan "Search for the New Land" to be wowwed by Green's talent in a bop combo. Find his own session "Matador" where he inspires John Coltrane's rhythm section to new heights."

A real good thing!

Dr.D.Treharne | Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom | 04/25/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Recorded on 29th April 1966, this is very much a John Patton album. Grant Green on Guitar plays a very subsidiary role to Patton, and Hugh Walker the drummer fills in around the sound created by the two main players. Thankfully the part played by Richard Landrum who provides the conga playing is also mixed well back on all the tracks. The sound is also heavily dependent on Patton's keyboard sound, with little evidence of the bass pedals being used, and with no extra bass player on any of the tracks. So provided you're not expecting a low down deep bass funky sound this is is a great remastering of the original album. All the tracks work well, but particular favourites are the Patton/Green track "Soul Woman" and the Sam Cooke track "The Shake". The version of the Duke Pearson track "Amanda" adds an interesting counterpoint to the tempo of most of the other tracks. It's a shame that the sleeve notes are an unadorned version of the original 1966 notes by Alan Grant, but this is an album that commends itself to your attention. Go buy, and enjoy what was going down in '66!"