Jared Gold Archive

Jared Gold – Reemergence – Strikezone Records

Jared Gold – Reemergence – Strikezone Records

Pure Hammond gold… Jared Gold – Reemergence – Strikezone Records 8817 – 51:19  ****: (Jared Gold – Hammond B3 organ; Dave Stryker – guitar; Billy Hart – drums; Jeremy Pelt – trumpet (#1, 3, 5) It’s been awhile since Jared Gold’s last CD (on Posi Tone Records), but Gold has kept plenty busy as a first choice organ sideman in New York City. His talents have also been recognized as he was recently voted as the Top Rising Star on organ in the annual Downbeat magazine poll. For his initial release on the new Strikezone label, Gold has assembled a great trio with guitarist Dave Stryker (who runs the label), and veteran drummer, Billy Hart. Jeremy Pelt (who seems to be a busy man himself—we just reviewed his new Cannonball Adderley tribute with Jim Snidero), guests on three tracks here. As expected, this CD shines, and will appeal to Hammond B3 aficionados. It’s a mix of standards (two Gershwin tunes), blues, gospel, a Beatles tune, as well as an original from both Gold and Stryker. What is unmistakable is the groove set by Gold and Stryker, and the strong presence of Billy Hart, as usual. There are no issues with […]

Dave Stryker – Strykin’ Ahead – Strikezone 

Dave Stryker – Strykin’ Ahead – Strikezone 

Dave Stryker – Strykin’ Ahead – Strikezone Records 8815 59:39****: A stylish endeavour ( Dave Stryker – guitar; Steve Nelson – vibes; Jared Gold – organ; McClenty Hunter – drums ) The configuration of an organ, guitar, drums jazz trio seems to have been around since God was a boy. However adding vibes to the mix offers another sound dimension that is more than simply the addition of one instrument. Guitarist Dave Stryker’s new release Strykin’ Ahead demonstrates that this new cohort provides an imaginative take on an album of originals and jazz stalwarts. The band leads off with a Stryker original “Shadowboxing” which is an animated minor blues and defines the possibilities that the band will pursue in its excursions of improvisation. Following along is a Wayne Shorter piece called “ Footprints” offered up in ballad style with a 5/4 time signature. Within the frame provided by the number, the principals find corners of the melody to develop a sensitive and expressive reading. Billy Strayhorn’s lovely number “Passion Flower” takes on a new meaning as it is given a Latin vibe by way of the feather light brushes of drummer McClenty Hunter. The album’s title track “Strykin’ Ahead” is […]