Artist: Duke Pearson Album: The Right Touch

Year: 2007
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of Duke Pearson's Album The Right Touch

Duke Pearson was one of the most underrated jazz artists of his time. With a career spanning over two decades, he left an indelible mark on the jazz world. Pearson established himself as a pianist, bandleader, and composer. Specifically, in 1967, he released the album The Right Touch. The album is a perfect representation of Pearson's musical style, and it features some of the most popular songs of his career. Let's dive into a critical review of the album, its genre, best songs, and most innovative aspects.

The album is a perfect representation of the soul jazz genre, with its blend of hard bop and rhythm and blues. The use of organ, guitar, horns, and piano, gives the album an infectious groove. The first track, Lil's Paradise, sets the tone for the album, with its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm. The track Ready Rudy? is another highlight. The song has a hard-driving beat with a funky bass line and intense solos from Pearson and Donald Byrd.

The most innovative part of the album is Pearson's ability to arrange the horn section. The horns are used sparingly but effectively, adding depth and texture to the music. For example, in the track Bloos, the horns are used to punctuate the melody, while in Have You Met Miss Jones? they add a rich and lush backdrop to the song.

The album's best tracks are The Right Touch and Sudel. The Right Touch is a memorable tune, with its catchy melody and infectious beat. It features some excellent solos from the band members, especially the guitar solo by Jim Hall. Sudel is a beautiful ballad that showcases the sensitive side of Pearson's playing. He demonstrates impeccable timing and a delicate touch on the keys.

One of the drawbacks of the album is the use of electric guitar. While the electric guitar adds a unique and innovative sound to the album, it also gives some of the tracks a dated feel. The guitar sound can be overwhelming and can detract from the other instruments' beauty.

Overall, Duke Pearson's album, The Right Touch, is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts. The album is a perfect representation of the soul jazz genre and showcases Pearson's exceptional talents as a pianist, bandleader, and composer. The best tracks are a testament to Pearson's skills and his ability to create memorable and innovative music. While the use of electric guitar may not appeal to some listeners, it adds a unique sound to the album, making it stand out from other jazz albums released during the same period. Pearson's legacy as a jazz artist is undeniable, and The Right Touch is a perfect example of his brilliance.