Freeman, Russ
Peak, 2002, CD
Instrument: Guitar
Issue: 8.3w
Jazz Ruler Type: funk
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 
O’s Notes: Russ takes a temporary step away from the Rippingtons to make this solo effort featuring more work on guitar. It defies clear characterization on the contemporary side of our Jazz Rulerª – there is a lot of variety. He moves from the Latin vibe of “Villa By the Sea” to the mellow “Soul Dance”, featuring Chris Botti’s trumpet, to the R&B groove of the title track and funky cover of Grover’s “East River Drive”. Jeff Lorber’s work on keys and Eric Marienthal’s sax spice it up a bit but it’s Russ’s date and he shows his versatility while entertaining the listener.
