Keyboardist Jason
Clark, guitarist Niko Lyras, drummer Steve Potts, saxophonist Pat Register,
bassist Dave Smith are the
core members of Memphis based group The Justus Brothers.
Since several decades they are backing luminaries such as
Booker T. & the M.G.’s, Kirk Whalum, Gregg Allman, Ike Turner,
Dave Stewart and many more.
Now they have released their
self titled album, breaking new ground in 2019. The opener
of the album is a medley of two songs by Sting, Fragile
and Fields of Gold. Fragile is from Sting's
second album Nothing Like The Sun (1987), while
Fields of Gold is from his album Ten Summoner's Tales
(1993). The implementation by the group succeeds perfectly
and smoothly. The Group has a broad instrumental base and can
implement the topics in a differentiated and professional
manner.
Chinese Checkers was released on Booker T. & the M.G.'s album Soul Dressing (1965). The interpretation convinces with a sophisticated horn arrangement, the guitar solo is also resounding good. The song is the first single of the album.
Sabroso means in Spanish language tasty. The piece fully deserves this title. Miss L is a moonshine serenade, composed by guitarist Niko Lyras for his girl. Also in the band context it sounds melodious.
Askin' Ain't Gettin' is a forward looking piece with a pounding beat that keeps you in a good mood. Interfaces to The Rippingtons are unmistakable. On Hip Pocket the group shines with a sneaky and funky groove.
The horn laden King's Strut is a piece that
immediately sounds familiar and goes down like milk with honey.
Garment District shows a strong influence from Weather Report's
Birdland.
I Keep Forgetting is a problem that
particularly affects older people. But here the problem is packaged very
nicely. The original by singer-songwriter Michael McDonald, from his
debut album If That's What It Takes will always be remembered.
The Justus Brothers have delivered with their debut
album a successful mixture of original compositions and covers, with
which the formation definitely recommends themselves as an excellent
live band.
Buy the album in all stores
Album Information
Title: The Justus Brothers
Artist: The Justus Brothers
Year: 2019
Genre: Smooth Jazz
Label: Memphis International Records
1 Fragile / Fields of Gold 4:59
2 Chinese Checkers 3:47
3 Sabroso 4:01
4 Miss L 4:30
5 Askin' Ain't Gettin' 4:53
6 Hip Pocket 4:32
7 King's Strut 3:41
8 Garment District 3:37
9 I Keep Forgetting 4:58