O’Neill, Michael
Pajarito Music, 2024, CD
Instrument: Guitar
Issue: 30.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 86
O’s Notes: Guitarist Michael O’Neill sets up a cool trio with drummer Land Richards and bassist John Leftwich for Arrival, a set of a dozen jazz-fusion tunes. O’Neill fans recognize his incredible prowess from way back on the Crusader’s “Street Life”. He was also a part of George Benson’s band for over 25 years among many others. There’s a taste of Latin on “Writ of Habeas Corpuscle” and “Cosa Buena”, a little funk on their take of “Smoke On The Water”, and the soft intricacies of “Lazin’ In The Haze”. We also liked “Yet Another Blues”, “The Snake Charmer” featuring Tom Keenlyside on sax, and “Opposing Views” with vocalists Sadie O’Neill and Lorie V. Moore along with Ronnie Foster (organ). It’s a strong set!
Publicist: Two for the Show Media
