This Is It!

by Melvin Sparks

Overview

Guitarist Melvin Sparks' quintet date is a throwback to late-'60s funky soul-jazz. The pieces are bluesy and funky without being blues, and fall between jazz and R&B grooves. Sparks plays well if predictably and his obscure backup band (which has a background vocal from Nikki Armstrong on "Give Your Life to G-d") performs its parts well and with spirit. All of the music is danceable without being overly simplistic and the solos usually last the optimum length of time. The results are quite accessible if somewhat lacking in surprises, played in a style that is very easy to like. ~ Scott Yanow

Product Details

Release Date:	06/07/2005
Label:	Savant Records (Jazz) / Savant
UPC:	0633842206523
Rank:	128145

Tracks

1. This Is It!
2. Bambu
3. Heavy Fallin' Out
4. My Girl
5. Give Your Life to G-d
6. Watch Yo' Step
7. Bounce
8. The Light Is On
9. Hot Barbecue

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Melvin Sparks   Primary Artist,Guitar
Justin Tomsovic   Drums
Jerry Z   Organ
Nikki Armstrong   Vocals (Background)
Jennifer Hartswick   Trumpet
Cochemea Gastelum   Saxophone

Technical Credits

Tommy Tedesco   Audio Engineer,Engineer
Melvin Sparks   Audio Production
Smokey Robinson   Composer
Brad Wrolstad   Design
Ronald White   Composer