Rotella, Thom
Four Bar, 2008, CD
Instrument: Guitar
Issue: 14.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Kool
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 
O’s Notes: Thom plays a laid back, cool jazz. He’s not hooked up to any electronic gadgets, just a big box guitar. His band is right there with him: Luther Hughes (b), Lew Matthews (p), Roy McCurdy (d) and Rich Eames (p). These guys perform together regularly in LA and you can feel the harmony among them. Rotella is in the spotlight and he shines brilliantly playing mostly originals and a few covers. But his covers of “My Foolish Heart” and “The Way You Look Tonight” are fresh, enjoyable transformations. Highlights are “The Dr. Is In” and “All Ways”. This is not smooth jazz; it’s cool jazz with mass appeal!
Publicist: Jazz Promo Services