Whilst most artists of Krieger’s vintage would be more than happy to pick up a pay check rehashing and revisiting their storied back catalogue, Krieger is cut from a far classier cloth and at 78 years young he is showing that his inventiveness and untamed spirit is as vital as it has ever been. There is plenty of fretboard wizardry on show but, as always, it is only to serve the compositions and not to rub our noses in the fact that mere mortals could spend a millennia playing the guitar and still get nowhere near him.
“Shark Skin Suit” is the sultry and funked up opener with a bluesy feel that is as loose a composition as Krieger has ever put name to. Likewise “Samosas & Kingfishers” is equally playful but with a mid-placed deep eastern vibe that gets better with each listen.
On an album loaded with quality tracks it’s hard to pick a standout but to get a real flavour then you would be not be wrong in going to “A Day in LA” as your first point of call. It’s jazz, funk, soul and groove condensed into just over four minutes. Say no more.
This is an album that allows Krieger and his band of merry mischief makers the chance to free-flow their way into the modern musical consciousness without boundaries or limitations. Krieger is as loose and creative as he has ever been and that only makes for a very special audio experience. This is subtle ferocity at it’s finest.
Krieger’s support is stellar with bassist Kevin Brandino, so good that one of tracks is named in his honour!! Drummer Franklin Vanderbilt does more than just keep time and tempo, there are occasions where he helps drive the music forward and lead the tonal changes that permeate throughout the album. King of the Keys Ed Roth is seemingly allowed a free reign to create whatever feeling he wishes. A wise choice.
There are times such as on “Never Say Never” or “Ricochet Rabbit” where Krieger is just letting the music and feel take him wherever it wants to go. That is true Jazz.
The album is out via Mascot Label Group/Players Club on 19th January 2024. No better way to start the new year.
Donnie’s Rating: 9/10
