Basile, Al
Sweet Spot, 2009, CD
Instrument: Trumpet
Issue: 15.3
Jazz Ruler Type: R&B+Jazz
Performance: 3
Sound: 3
Score: 
O’s Notes: Al is a blues man. He sings, plays the trumpet/cornet and writes all of his tunes. He is from the Northeast but we can hear a lot of New Orleans in his music. That is a result of his heavy influence by Louis Armstrong and his band, especially producer and guitarist Duke Robillard. The lyrics span all aspects of love: cheating, loving, hurt, pain and forgiveness. While Al does a fine job with his work, we’re sure others will sing his blues as well. Doug James (ts, bs) keeps the horn section tight with guest Gordon Beadle (ts) adding a strong solo on “Where Are You Tonight”. And we liked the addition of harmonica by Sugar Ray Norcia on “Termites In My Basement”. There is soul in Soul Blue!
Publicist: Mark Pucci Media