George Duke, the late jazz/funk keyboardist, had continued his wave of productive albums with “Face The Music.”
The album’s many tunes had something to offer true jazz fans from soul, gospel, african rhythms & pop vocals. “Let's Roll” features pumping improvisational barrage of lightning quick piano notes that are second to none. “Let’s Roll” left some tight solo action for Christian McBride on acoustic bass keeping pace with every single note. “Ain't It Funky Now,” an old James Brown masterpiece has the feel of the 1970's Average White Band. It imitates their vociferous horn section that was explosive while landing a powerful punch. “Chillin” highlights Duke's savory vocals, African rhythms and vocal chants that make you wonder why his voice wasn't on more of those memorable recordings.
“Face The Music” takes the blueprint of some of those earlier George Duke albums (“Reach For It,” “Can't Let Go,” “Follow The Rainbow”) that surely will get a rise out of the old school jazz funksters.
