Search - New Mastersounds :: Be Yourself

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The Delite Rancher | Phoenix, Arizona | 07/10/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The New Mastersounds explode with energy on "Be Yourself." On one hand, the band's sound is like organic acid jazz, but on the other hand it has an aged and vintage feel. The end result is music that sounds both fresh and time-tested. Their funky and danceable sound seems to draw on the likes of the Meters, Howard Roberts and Jimmy McGriff. The disc sparkles in terms of the arrangements and the solos by individual musicians. While Eddie Roberts' guitar work is hot, Bob Birch's keyboards are the real engine behind the group. The only dark cloud over "Be Yourself" is the vocals by Corinne Bailey Rae and LSK. While these two tracks distinguish the disc from the other funky jazz that's out there, it's not for the better. All in all, this quartet proves that the UK has some serious jazz musicians who are well schooled in improvisation. Although not as good as 2005's "This Is What We Do," "Be Yourself" establishes that the New Mastersounds not only know how to put on a good live show but shine in the studio."