DEAN BROWN
Here (ESC Records)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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"Here" has been Dean Brown's response to an impressive array of leaders over the last 20 years. As a sideman, the guitarist has appeared and recorded with the likes of Billy Cobham, the Brecker Brothers, David Sanborn, Bill Evans, George Duke and Marcus Miller. In a bit of a role reversal, all of the above, and then some, responded in kind when the roll was taken at the sessions for Brown's first album as a leader. Notable among the additional cast are bassist Christian McBride, organist Ricky Peterson and percussionist Don Alias. Altogether, 27 different players took some part in recording the 14 tracks on the CD.

The tracks are diverse in their sound, as well, although Brown's apparent affection for the thick thump of funk and a sinewy soul groove slip through more often than not. Among the cuts are tracks that seem ready for every radio format from AOR to "smooth" jazz, though in every case they would represent the adventurous edge of contemporary programming.

Standout cuts include "The Clave Groove," featuring Bill Evans' tenor, Billy Cobham's drums and Christian McBride on acoustic bass, along with percussionist Danny Sadownick on congas and, naturally, claves, and "Back In The Day," with featured roles for bassist Marcus Miller and David Sanborn's alto sax. My top pick, though, has to be "The Battle's Over (For Jaco)," a tribute to the late bassist Jaco Pastorious on which Brown, Cobham and McBride are joined by Schuyler Deale on electric bass, George Whitty on grand piano and Bernard Wright on keyboards. Over the course of nine and a half minutes, the music manages to be both heartfelt and explosive, and Brown's guitar work is at its very best.

Every cut here has its merits, though, and every cut features a different ensemble of top rate musicians giving everything they've got to support a friend. It's a terrific debut.

Track List:

Take This! * Gemini * Back In The Day * Seven Groove Interlude * Tell It (Like It Is) * Big Foot * The Clave Groove * Billy Groove Interlude * Believe Me * Solid * Baby You're A Rich Man * Just For Kicks * Seven Groove Interlude * The Battle's Over (For Jaco)

© 2001 - Shaun Dale