Search - Willis "Gator" Jackson :: Bar Wars

Classic "soul jazz"!

bluesdoc05 | South | 01/28/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Willis Jackson, aka "The Gator", produced some of the finest examples of the "soul jazz" genre. This type of music was very popular in the late 50's, 60's and 70's but now seems to be forgotten. Whats a shame: If you dig jazz that has a heavy blues vibe, then Gator is your man.



This disc is a stellar example, with the always solid Charles Earland on organ, as well as Jackson's most famous sideman, Pat Martino, by this time a legend in the jazz guitar world. While all the tracks feature stellar playing, the title track, and "The Goose is Loose" are especially noteworthy, with all three soloists giving you breathtaking work. Jackson in particular, takes chorus after fiery chorus, with each one building in intensity. There were few if any saxophonists who could hang with the Gator on an uptempo blues. And as much as many fans wax poetically about Kenny Burrell being the master at combining blues with jazz guitar, for my money no one can touch the work Martino did with Jackson not only on this disc, but also on "Headed and Gutted" and "Single Action". Simply superb."

More of the Gator

Matthew C | Anchorage, AK | 01/31/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"While this album doesn't contain as many strong points as "Keep On a Blowin" or "Soul Night Live" this is a fine showing from Mr. Jackson.



Willis really cooks on The Goose Is Loose, letting loose with his trademark honks and sqwaks. Pat Martino offers some exemplary guitar work (although he's done better), and Charles Earland keeps the groove flowing nicely too. The addition of a congo player on several tracks helps add to the soul-funkniess too."