JAMES WHITON
Rhythm & Motion (Lovely Chihuahua Records)
Reviewed by Eric Steiner

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James Whiton's put together 13 songs that showcase his prowess on the double bass. Fans of jazzmen like Stanley Clarke will warm to Rhythm and Motion for James Whiton's command of the bass in a variety of styles: from quiet, early in the morning pieces like "Autumn Raine" to fully funked-up night-club jumpers like "Marvin" or "Easy Street." For me, the peaceful instrumental "5 1/4" is much too short: James could have extended this piano and bass exploration for quite a lot longer. The title cut features pedal steel and fiddle, and it reminds me of early Tom Waits. Several cuts, like "Autumn Raine" or "Junk Drawer #1" are both ready for jazz radio right now, and I hope that Rhythm & Motion gets people moving. In addition to his solo work, he's also the bottom behind Taarka, 3 Legged Cat, and The Jazz Rednecks. For sound samples, including full-length MP3s that didn't make it to Rhythm & Motion, go to www.jameswhiton.com. To close out 2002, James will be dividing his time touring or playing with Eric McFadden (fresh from the P-Funk Tour), Taarka, beatbox phenom Otha Major, or helping out his friend Matt Messina with the premiere of a new symphony piece with members of the Seattle Symphony, Children of the Revolution, and Ardis the Spoonman.

Track List:

The Gospel Acc. To James * Junk Drawer #1 * Ancient Heroes * Marvin * Junk Drawer #2 * Easy Street * Billy's Bass * Bus Driver * 5 1/4 * 6 1/8 * 7/16 (Michael White's Groove) * Autumn Raine * Rhythm & Motion

[Pick this up at www.jameswhiton.com.]

© 2002 - Eric Steiner