Stanley Clarke, “The Stanley Clarke Band”

(www.stanleyclarke.com)

This newest release from icon Stanley Clarke is poised to impress in every way.  This may be my favorite of Stanley’s lineups (and having mentioned that he may not to another electric album for quite some time, we would do well to soak it in!).  Featuring Stanley’s drummer for the past few years, Ronald Bruner, Jr., guitar phenom Rusian Sirota and the ever impressive Hiromi on keyboards the performances are nothing short of spectacular.  Bruner has been playing with Stanley and it’s no mystery as to why…  this dude smokes!  Great pocket and some A-list fire-works when it’s time.  Hiromi is as musical and impressive as ever.  Guitarist Rusian Sirota has really blown me away here.  I was only vaguely familiar with him prior to listening to this disc and he’s completely off the charts.  At times, reminiscent of Frank Gambale with the Electric Band, but more impressive in my opinion (and with his own musical stamp).

This self-titled release is probably my new favorite Stanley album.  It’s got some greta grooves, get’s funky as hell and shreds just enough (but not too much).  I’m really digging these tunes and couldn’t ask anything more from the performances.

Definitely recommended!