Richard "Groove" Holmes, a master of the soul jazz and hard bop genres, delivers a captivating performance with his 1980 release, "Broadway." This album, released under the Savoy label, is a testament to Holmes' virtuosic skills on the Hammond organ, blending jazz funk, acid jazz, and hard bop into a seamless and engaging collection of tracks.
"Broadway" kicks off with the title track, setting the stage for a journey through a variety of moods and tempos. The album's standout tracks, such as "Everything Must Change" and "Ode To Larry Young," showcase Holmes' ability to infuse his playing with both technical prowess and deep emotional resonance. The inclusion of the classic "Moon River" offers a touch of familiarity, while "Katherine" and "Plenty, Plenty Blues" highlight Holmes' knack for creating soulful, groove-laden compositions.
Clocking in at just under 38 minutes, "Broadway" is a concise yet powerful statement from one of jazz's most respected organists. The album's production quality is top-notch, allowing Holmes' playing to shine through with clarity and depth. Whether you're a longtime fan of Richard "Groove" Holmes or a newcomer to his music, "Broadway" is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Vinylscout