Jazz / Contemporary Jazz; Post-Bop
Recorded: Dec 2005
The 13 tracks on That's What I Say range from lesser-known Charles gems to some of his most signature tunes. However, Scofield crafts each tune in his own distinctive style, putting his indelible stamp on every performance. Scofield, a fan of Charles' since childhood, showcases his well-known guitar mastery as well as his strengths as an arranger and interpreter of song throughout the tribute, particularly in his inventive horn arrangements.
Scofield's core group for this album features Steve Jordan (Sonny Rollins, Rolling Stones), the album's producer, on drums, Larry Goldings (Maceo Parker, James Taylor) on keyboards and Willie Weeks (Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder) on bass. Scofield leads these stellar musicians, creating the solid groundwork for a star-studded guest list as they pay homage to Charles.
Scofield made inspired choices when inviting these collaborators to join in on this recording. Dr. John brings some N'awlins soul to the medley "Talkin' Bout You/I Got A Woman," while Warren Haynes of the Allman Brothers, Gov't Mule, and The Dead takes on "Night Time Is The Right Time." GRAMMY®-winning pop star John Mayer showcases the breadth of his talents by singing and playing guitar on "I Don't Need No Doctor," and Aaron Neville's inimitable voice elevates "You Don't Know Me." David "Fathead" Newman blows smoldering sax solos throughout, and the incomparable Mavis Staples leads "I Can't Stop Loving You" deep into the blues.
Other tunes selected by Scofield for this tribute include the party-like "Sticks and Stones" (propelled by Golding's Hammond B-3 wizardry), the tender ballad "Cryin' Time," and the slow, steady groove of "Unchain My Heart (Part 1)." That's What I Say closes with Scofield's reverent, solo acoustic interpretation of one of Charles' most beloved hits, "Georgia On My Mind."
John Scofield - Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar
Larry Goldings - Piano, Vibes, Hammond, Wurlitzer organ
Willie Weeks - Bass
Steve Jordan - Drums, Tambourine, Background Vocals, Producer
Warren Haynes - (2, 11) Guitar, Vocal
John Mayer - (2, 4) Guitar, Vocal
Aaron Neville - (2, 12) Vocal
David "Fathead" Newman - (2, 7) Tenor Saxophone
Dr. John - (2, 8) Piano, Vocal
Mavis Staples - (2, 6) Vocal
Manolo Badrena - Percussion
Lisa Fischer - Background Vocals
Vaneese Thomas - Background Vocals
Meegan Voss - Background Vocals
Alex Foster - Tenor Saxophone
Earl Gardner - Trumpet
Howard Johnson - Baritone Saxophone
Keith O’Quinn - Trombone |
