Joey DeFrancesco

Organist Joey DeFrancesco found his first musical inspiration at home, in his father "Papa" John. Although the elder DeFrancesco never became famous, his son's success has led to him getting opportunities to record. The two DeFrancescos had recorded together a little bit in the past, but usually with Joey switching to trumpet. For this date, they are both heard exclusively on twin organs with a fine supporting cast: tenor saxophonist Bootsie Barnes, producer Houston Person sometimes on second tenor, guitarist Melvin Sparks and drummer Byron Landham. The repertoire is fairly typical of soul-jazz, with basic originals, a couple of pop melodies ("Sunny" and "Those Were the Days" from All in the Family), the heated "Blues for Sweet Sue," the swing-era hit "Tuxedo Junction" and even an R&B read of "When the Saints Go Marching In." On "My Buddy," Joey and Papa John talk a bit spontaneously about their close relationship and engage in some effective singing. Easily recommended to fans of jazz organ. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide