Blue Mitchell - Stratosonic Nuances
- Artist Blue Mitchell
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Trumpeter Blue Mitchell takes a distinctly funky turn on Stratosonic Nuances, a fascinating blend of jazz-funk, soul-jazz and contemporary fusion. Recorded at RCA Studio A in Hollywood, the album finds Mitchell moving away from the harder-edged bop of his earlier Blue Note recordings towards a smoother, more commercially minded sound, without losing his distinctive trumpet style.
The five-track set opens with Barry White's "Satin Soul", a beautifully arranged slice of orchestral jazz-funk, followed by a lengthy, twelve-minute interpretation of Stevie Wonder's "Creepin'", featuring some excellent keyboard work and atmospheric grooves. Mitchell's own "Bump It" brings a more upbeat funk feel, while Thelonious Monk's "Nutty" provides a welcome return to more traditional jazz territory. The closing "Melody For Thelma" rounds things off with some fine soloing.
The supporting cast is particularly impressive, featuring saxophonist Harold Land, pianists Cedar Walton and Hampton Hawes, guitarist David T. Walker, bassist Tony Newton and legendary session drummer James Gadson, with percussion from Gary Coleman.
A slightly overlooked entry in Mitchell's catalogue, Stratosonic Nuances is an enjoyable discovery for jazz-funk enthusiasts, particularly those drawn to the sophisticated, heavily arranged sound of mid-'70s crossover jazz