Cinque
is comprised of drummer Steve Gadd, bassist Peter Cardinali, Hammond B3
organist Joey DeFrancesco, pianist Robi Botos, who also plays Fender
Rhodes, and saxophonist John Johnson.
The set begins with “Conflicting Advice,” a laid-back groove that
highlights the entire band. Cardinali’s bass is present throughout, and
his horn arrangements add a dose of funk. Johnson leads early on, but
Botos and DeFrancesco take turns letting their fingers do the talking. And
through it all, Gadd shows why he’s been in demand for so many years,
adeptly underscoring whatever else is going on.
“Two Worlds” is a charming ballad. Gadd softens up his drum play, and
Cardinali plays a leisurely but elegant bass line. Johnson leads most of
the way, with Botos contributing on the Fender Rhodes. The piece has a
bossa nova flavor.
The title song is another funky groove. The organ and the electric piano
trade lines on the opening melody. Gadd mixes it up on the toms to bridge
the opening sequence and Johnson’s lead. Some wah guitar effects are
thrown in to spice up the funk.
The best title award goes to “Over the Humpty Dump,” which may also be the
coolest track. Its sweeping, 3/4 rhythm is punctuated by Gadd’s timely
hits on the cymbals and snare. The horns give it a small, big band sound.
DeFrancesco is the highlight with his maneuverings on the B3.
Six of the eight tracks of Catch A Corner were written by members
of the group. The last two tracks are covers of songs by Cedar Walton and
Paul Simon.
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