Freddie “Ready” Washington | In The Moment

Album Review: Freddie “Ready” Washington | In The Moment
By Randy Mahon

*Note from Terrill – Publisher of T.U.M.S.
(We introduce another team player/reviewer from the T.U.M.S. camp – Mr. Randy Mahon. His background in the music industry is a major plus & we are more than happy to have Mr. Mahon on The Urban Music Scene!)

This debut disc from venerable session bassist extraordinaire Freddie Washington,”Ready” Freddie as he is known to the world, is a very nice collection of smooth & soulful sounds. From the opening title track “In The Moment” to the closing piece “Set It Off”, Freddie takes you through a journey of smooth jazz paradise.

Highlights of this great disc include the opening track title track “In The Moment” with it’s mellow groove supplied by Freddie’s tasty solo bass licks, are aptly supported by Michael Paulo’s sax and Ray Parker, Jr’s funky guitar licks.

“When You Get Right Down To It” featuring the master talents of Joe Sample on Fender Rhodes and Patrice Rushen, compliments the phrasings of Freddie’s upper register bass tones. This track has a  melodic and easy paced groove that will set the evening drive off right. Trumpeter Johnny Britt of Impromp2 fame plays beautifully alongside Freddie’s fret work.

“Easy Ride” is exactly what the title states. An easy, yet simple melodic groove featuring another veteran drummer, Leon “Ndugu” Chancler along with Johnny Britt’s sensual trumpet accompaniment.

The funky “Freddie’s Groove” consists of an all star cast of players i.e. Patrice Rushen, vocalist Lynn Davis, & Clarence McDonald. This head bopping track is sure to get any party started off on the right track with it’s easy to sing along choruses.

On “I Can Make It Better” featuring the wonderful background vocals of the great Deniece Williams and session background vocalist, Lynn Fiddmont, supports this mid tempo groover with the utmost style and grace.Freddie’s warm tone and flowing bass lines are very soothing to the ear,as well as the great sax work of Michael Paulo.

“Do You Remember” – a late night, slow down tempo track, once again showcases Freddie’s easy flowing, not rushed bass chops. The combination of the Flute & Trombone backing parts keeps the mood simple & free-flowing. Steve Baxters’ Trombone solo does not over power, but adds a nice touch to the song overall.

“Let It Go” features another seasoned veteran of the Smooth Jazz scene, Gerald Albright. Gerald and Freddie play wonderfully with one another.This mid tempo track, with it’s feel good smoothed out groove, will have you and yours popping the bubbly.

Closing track “Set It Off” is the perfect ending to an above average disc. Once again featuring Patrice Rushen on Fender Rhodes, with it’s up tempo, harder edge sounds will have those hands clapping and feet moving. On this particular track, Freddie flexes with bass chops and a bit more dexterity. Also featured is the wah-wah guitar meister himself, Melvin “Wah Wah” Watson with his trademark guitar licks. Patrice Rushen throws down on the Fender Rhodes with her funky styling throughout.

GET THIS CD !!

Randy Mahon
The Urban Music Scene