Stanton Moore Trio
Emphasis (On Parenthesis)
Telarc

Drummer Stanton Moore (co-founder of the bands Galactic) has put out a followup to last year’s III (On Telarc) that in many ways is better (or superior) to his previous two recordings. If you’ve ever been bitten by the Stax bug (the famous R&B label of the 60s), you’re probably going to really appreciate this cooking little disc, as Moore has put together a band that is pleasantly reminiscent of Booker T and The MGs; airtight arrangements, a funky backbeat and a Hammond that just won’t quit are sure to get you tapping your feet in no time. Emphasis (on parenthesis) (referred to as EOP from now on) is filled with highly accessible groove tunes, compactly performed (nothing over 5 minutes), and some jamming guitar work by Will Bernard. Tunes like the riffed and riveting “(proper) Gander” and “(who ate the) Layer Cake?” are just begging for some singer from the Wilson Pickett (or Sam and Dave) school of vocals to add some lyrics. “(Late Nigt At The ) Mapel Leaf” could have come right out of a Beale Street Bar. This is fun and funk at it’s finest. Catch them at the Mint May 8, and bring some dancing shoes (and a partner).