The Crusaders

This early 21st century version of the Crusaders features founding members Joe Sample (Rhodes and Wurlitzer) and Wilton Felder (saxophone), with new recruits in guitarist Ray Parker, Jr., trombonist Steve Baxter, drummerKendrick Scott, and bassist Freddy Washington, Jr. Previously released only in Japan, this live date was in support of the shockingly good Rural Renewal album from 2003, which included this band with original drummer Stix Hooper and a slew of guests including Eric Clapton. This gig contains two cuts from that album: the stellar "Shotgun House Groove" with great guitar work by Parker and a fine, funky, in the pocket groover called "Creepin'." The rest is from the Crusaders catalog and includes tracks from Southern Comfort, Free as the Wind, and Street Life. While this in no way captures the same magic as the original quartet -- trombonist Wayne Henderson and Hooper were too integral to its sound to be replaced by anyone -- this music is beautifully played and felt. Excellent examples include Felder's classic (it's almost the Crusaders' theme) "Way Back Home," with its lilting horn and piano groove, excellent Rhodes by Sample, and a stunning solo by Felder. This cut is pure soul feel; these cats dig deep into the vamp at its core making it express more each time through. Another notable is the über funky "Put It Where You Want It" to close the set. Parker's guitar playing is far to the nasty left of Larry Carlton's (on the original studio version from the Crusaders 1). The bottom line is, if you simply accept this for what it is, a tough, feel good soul-jazz record, it is a truly fine listen without a dud tune in the bunch. Believe it: there is plenty here to get your groove on to. ~ Thom Jurek, Rovi