Jeff Jenkins Organization is an organ jazz trio that is influenced by the likes of Jimmy Smith and Grant Green. The Arrival is a great rendition of jazzy originals that truly swing. Jeff Jenkins is very impressive because, with a lineup of Dave Corbus on guitar and Alwyn Robinson on drums, he is in charge of bass and keyboards. This is a very tough skill to master and Jeff Jenkins displays his mastery throughout the album. The Arrival is the group’s first album but they can be seen regularly at Dazzle, a Denver jazz club.
The Arrival was recorded, unlike most albums, with a straightforward approach to the music and no overdubs. The group recorded The Arrival live and made an extremely high quality recording of this performance. With jazz, no two shows are alike and if you see them live then you will surely see a different rendition or improvisation over a certain song. This album is an easy listen for those who are interested in jazz and like typical jazz standards. “Braking Bad” and “Happy Together” are two enjoyable tracks in particular but there is not a song on this record you can’t enjoy. The Arrival is great to listen to early in the morning on your drive to work or late in the evening when winding down.
Recommended If You Like: Jimmy Smith, Larry Young, Grant Green
Recommended Tracks: 1 (Braking Bad), 2 (Sideways), 4 (Happy Together), 8 (Earth Dance)
Do Not Play: None
Written by Matt Weiman on 12/01/15