Music Review: Paul Taylor's 'Burnin'
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PAUL TAYLOR
"Burnin' "
Kindred Spirits: Junior Walker, David Sanborn, Richard Elliot.
Show: Tonight at Rams Head Tavern in Annapolis. Shows start at 7 and 10. 410-268-4545. http:/
It doesn't take an arson squad to discover the source of ignition for "Burnin'." The influence of Junior Walker, the late, legendary R&B saxophonist, is unmistakable, a spark that's evident throughout reedman Paul Taylor's new release.
The smooth-jazz operator doesn't sound quite like himself this time, and for good reason. Well known for his radio-friendly soprano and alto sax excursions, Taylor mostly plays tenor on his new CD, allowing for welcome changes in tone and direction: less lite jazz, more vintage soul.
Taylor salutes several R&B and soul stalwarts, directly or indirectly. "Back in the Day" sets the album's retro tone, with singer Billy Cliff sounding as if he's channeling Michael McDonald channeling Marvin Gaye. There are nods to Gaye and Stevie Wonder elsewhere, and a cover of War's "Me and Baby Brother" helps "Burnin' " stand apart from Taylor's previous releases.
Of course, producers Barry Eastmond and Rex Rideout, who've worked with the likes of Al Jarreau and Anita Baker, aren't bent on alienating Taylor's fans. "Burnin' " has breezy and romantic interludes that should garner plenty of smooth-jazz airplay. Yet the album's best tracks find Taylor and guitarist Darrell Crooks saluting their heroes with obvious affection and soulful assurance.
-- Mike Joyce
