| Funk, Soul |
Sometimes we receive albums that straddle several musical genres, as is the case here with this singer, poet, and educator from Brooklyn, blending funk, soul, and jazz. Regardless, this album is like a welcome ray of sunshine to celebrate the arrival of spring. Frazier’s mastery of conga, drums, djembe, and a multitude of percussion instruments provides him with a broad percussive palette that encompasses the vast dimensions of African musical diaspora, from Afro-Caribbean rhythms to jazz. Frazier has recorded or performed with numerous artists, including Pharoah Sanders, Jack McDuff, Reggie Workman, Robin Kenyatta, Carlos Garnett, Stanley Banks, Danny Mixon, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Jimmy McGriff, and Rueben Wilson. Frazier’s previous CDs include: Live at Cecil’s Jazz Club, Vols. 1 and 2; Live at Humphrey’s by The Bay; Count Your Blessings; Live at The Knitting Factory in NYC; In Your Own Time; Find Yourself (Then Find Me); and Smile Inside Your Soul.
Frazier’s latest recording and his career illustrate him as a Renaissance man in the rhythm of art and life. You’ll irresistibly feel like dancing because there’s an invitation to groove on the dance floors; Frazier’s serious rhythmic sense can’t leave you indifferent. Adhering to all types of rhythms, including Latino, you’ll witness a beautiful demonstration of his immense talent on this album.
In announcing his album, Eric Frazier declares: “The impact of my music can serve to inspire others or put a positive spin on their thoughts and actions. It encourages laughter, smiles, finger snapping, head bobbing, foot stomping, and bodies in motion. It projects positive thinking and forward movement. You, the people, influence my music…”
At least things are clear; this album, evoking smiles and joie de vivre, is a kind of favorite for us amidst other more “serious” albums that push us towards a deeper analysis. Here, it’s only the heart that speaks… an album to relax in the shade of palm trees and enjoy life!
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, April 4th 2024
Follow PARIS-MOVE on X
::::::::::::::::::::::