CD Reviews: Mike Kennedy Quartet, “Idle Afternoon”
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Posted by: adminon Friday, September 01, 2006 - 03:00 PM |
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By Edward Blanco
Playing light straight-ahead contemporary jazz at its best, the Mike Kennedy Quartet records a selection of eight original compositions from guitarist and leader Kennedy. Idle Afternoon is the second album (their debut CD, Quartet No. 1 was released in 2002) from this Philadelphia-based small combo which, besides the leader, includes pianist Mike Frank, bassist Paul Gehman and Dan Monaghan on drums.
I was immediately impressed by Kennedy’s compositions that include plenty of melodic stuff diced with nice harmonies. The group bolts right out of the gate with the swinging “I’ll Take Two,” showcasing Kennedy with some appreciable licks on guitar. Listen to the title cut “Idle Afternoon” for a real groovy beat and very catchy rhythm. Providing another dose of quick moving melodies, “Territory” features a terrific piano excursion by Mr. Frank who plays with unbridled emotion.
Kennedy includes a good portion of light mellow jazz with such cuts as “Walk In The Park,” in which both Frank and the leader lay down very cool solos. “Gilded Garden” is another fine mellow tune. The album rounds out with twelve minutes of the low-tempo “News To Me” and the absolutely divine “Days End,” three minutes of solo magic by Kennedy.
Guitarist, composer and producer, Mike Kennedy seems to do it all with Idle Afternoon, a disc containing refreshing new material of the kind of music you’ll likely enjoy on an afternoon to remember. The Mike Kennedy Quartet captures a performance of musical delights in an enjoyable and entertaining set.
Label: Self Published
Year: 2006
Artist Website: www.kennedymusic.com
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