Willey, Rich
Wise Cat, 2026, CD
Instrument: Instrumental
Issue: 32.2
Jazz Ruler Type: R&B+Jazz
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 77
O’s Notes: Trumpeter, composer Richard Willey leads a large ensemble combining jazz, funk, and reggae into an accessible program on Laid Back, Volume 1. The results leave us with music to chill by, perfect for a cruise on the lake! The 11-piece band includes some fine Chicago musicians and features John Swana playing the Electronic Valve Instrument (EVI). The seven original tracks are highlighted by “Triple Play”, the samba groove on “That’s My Little Girl”, and the title track.
Publicist: Jazz Promo Services
