CD review: Robben Ford, Bill Evans – The Sun Room 2019: Video, CD cover

The Sun Room is exactly what you get when two legendary musicians join forces together, in this case virtuoso jazz/blues guitarist Robben Ford and acclaimed saxophonist Bill Evan, the duo joined by current Steely Dan drummer Keith Carlock and bassist James Genus, who has played with the likes of Lee Konitz, Michael Brecker, Branford Marsalis and Chick Corea. It’s a recipe for success ladies and gentleman!

Featuring Ford & Evans original compositions, The Sun Room contains a total of nine tracks, all fused with elements of swinging jazz and emotional blues. “Star Time” and “Catch a Ride” both are chock full of groove and a myriad of solo spots, while “Big Mama” pulsates and oozes, Rob Aries adding in some atmospheric organ and Ford launching into a sizzling solo before being joined by his partner in crime Evans. “Gold On My Shoulder” is a blues pop number with some strong vocals courtesy of Ford, and the laid back “Pixies” is a jazzy number with plenty of melodic explorations from Evans. The sax master takes over on vocals for the more blues-rock oriented “Insomnia”, while the two lengthy closing tracks “Strange Days” and “Bottle Opener” contain a wealth of electric & acoustic guitar textures from Ford that allow Evans to soar to the heavens, the latter also a great vehicle for the rhythm team to go into overdrive.

Classy stuff all around from these masterful musicians, The Sun Room is a must hear for jazz and blues fans alike.

Tracks

01. Star Time
02. Catch A Ride
03. Big Mama
04. Gold On My Shoulder
05. Pixies
06. Something In The Rose
07. Insomnia
08. Strange Days
09. Bottle Opener

Robben Ford – guitar
Bill Evans – tenor sax
Rob Aries – key
James Genus – bass
Keith Carlock – drums