Todd Strait is one of the Kansas City jazz scene’s most valuable sideman. The drummer's presence on a date lends instant prestige while his playing guarantees a phenomenal sense of swing. Yet he’s relatively unknown outside of jazz circles.
There’ll Be Some Changes Made, Strait’s first album as leader, should increase his visibility. The mainstream recording shows why he was an essential member of the touring bands led by jazz notables Karrin Allyson, Eldar Djangirov and Kevin Mahogany. (Djangirov is the album’s mixing engineer.)
The 66-minute project features a few guest appearances, but Strait works with pianist Bill Mays and bassist Bob Bowman on almost every track. Three selections are particularly rewarding. An interpretation of Beethoven’s “Für Elise” is delightful. “Kids Are Pretty People” showcases Strait’s impeccable tastefulness. The feisty dialogue between Strait and Bowman on “Tiptoe” provide the best moments of There'll Be Some Changes Made.
(Original image by Plastic Sax.)
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