1,2, TO THE BASS

This record is a sort of contemporary comeback by Clarke after a couple of straight jazz records with acoustic bass. It's an eclectic set of songs ranging from R&B, contemporary jazz, smooth jazz to jazz funk. There are some clever and warm instrumentals like "Simply said" or "Anna" or "All the children" which show mature bass technique without overshadowing the main motive. R&B is represented by "Where is the love" which features vocal style a la Stevie Wonder. "Just Cruzin" is a great 70's feeling not unsimilar to George Benson mid-70's instrumental output. "'Bout bass" has a great rhythm led by multiple layers of solo bass and accompanying bass. The last two cuts could be easily a part of soundtrack. The weak spoken "I shall not be moved" is compensated by the ethereal "Shanti Peace Paz" sharing the Indian violin and jazzy bass.

A confident album by the bass legend.