Organissimo - Dedicated

Following up on the release in 2010 of an acclaimed "live" recording, the Michigan-based trio Organissimo emerges from the studio with Dedicated, a stunning collection of soul jazz for modern ears. Loaded with greasy grooves, funky swirling Hammond organ and gutsy guitar, the new album expands on the band's distinctive sound with new textures and a bold new focus. The spotlight is on the groove and Dedicated delivers. Featuring 10 new original songs and one very funky cover, Dedicated is laid-back, swinging, jazz infused with soul. The CD opens with the high-energy "Randiculous," showcasing the band's trademark tight interplay. "Blues On The Blacktop" takes the listener back to the heyday of organ jazz in the 1960s, when the shuffle reigned supreme and you could find a Hammond in every corner bar. "Up In The Playroom" is a joyous syncopated boogaloo sure to get the feet tapping. Other highlights include the spacey intro "Omen" that seamlessly flows into "Three Sisters" dedicated to organist Jim Alfredson's beloved daughters. "Gotcha Back" is a modern funk-fueled classic, motoring down the highway like a new Cadillac while "Patterson's People" (dedicated to jazz great Don Patterson) is a "burner" that shows Organissimo can swing with the best. The CD ends with "The Drunken Drummer Blues" bringing to mind a gig's last set when the drummer may have imbibed a bit too much during the course of the night. Formed in 2000, Organissimo has wowed audiences across the globe with it's unique take on the jazz organ tradition. Dedicated not only extends that illustrious heritage but also introduces the band's new guitarist, Ralph Tope. Ralph's style is influenced by such legendary jazz guitarists as George Benson, Grant Green and Wes Montgomery and his playing adds a visceral immediacy to Organissimo.