Greatest Hits Re-Recorded, Vol. 1

Album review

Larry Carlton's "hits" are not so much reimagined on this collection as they are brought into a more contemporary arena. The respected studio session man, electric guitarist, and hero to many brings these tracks -- which are more favorites than chart toppers -- into a different focus within contemporary jazz confines. With the excellent drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, electric keyboardist Jeff Babko, and son Travis Carlton on electric bass guitar, Larry Carlton revisits these songs as if they were old friends he hasn't seen for awhile, and renders them with the non-swing rhythms that have identified his lengthy career. Some of these compositions were based on the original lines, bass in the case of "All in Good Time," and piano or keyboards, lending to Babko's synthesized sound that dominates tracks like the gospel-infused "Terry T" for Terry Trotter, or the sweet road song "Smiles & Smiles to Go." Carlton himself sounds best during the funky strut of "High Steppin'" or the R&B-influenced "Red Hot Poker." Power over melody, steady funk, and pop-styled music are also heard, enhanced by the sax work of Paul Cerra on occasion. Where the original versions likely hold a stronger appeal for fans, these tracks will remind them of how musically consistent Larry Carlton has been during his roller coaster personal life and times.

© Michael G. Nastos /TiVo