In the vibrant summer of 2023, the acclaimed Dave Stryker Trio joined forces with the legendary tenor saxophonist Bob Mintzer to create “Groove Street,” a compelling new album brimming with fresh musical ideas. Recorded just before their week-long engagement at the iconic Birdland in NYC, this collaboration captures the exciting synergy between long-time friends and musical associates, Stryker and Mintzer. Their history includes Mintzer’s masterful arrangements and conducting on Stryker’s “Blue Soul” album with the WDR Big Band in Germany. While Mintzer had previously graced the trio’s tours as a guest, “Groove Street” marks the first time they delved into this specific collection of music together in the studio.
The album’s magic lies in its spontaneity and the palpable energy of world-class musicians exploring uncharted sonic territories. Many tracks on “Groove Street” were captured in a single take, highlighting the intuitive communication and deep musical understanding between Stryker, Mintzer, and the steadfast trio featuring Jared Gold on organ and McClenty Hunter on drums.
“Groove Street” is a diverse and engaging listening experience. The album opener and title track, “Groove Street,” is a classic organ shuffle that immediately sets a soulful and energetic tone. Mintzer’s compositional contributions, “Overlap” and “Straight Ahead,” showcase his distinctive voice and arranging prowess. Stryker’s own compositions, including the high-energy “Summit” and the bluesy “Code Blue,” further demonstrate his versatility as a writer and player. Jared Gold’s “Soulstice” adds another layer of depth to the album’s rich sonic tapestry.
Beyond original compositions, “Groove Street” also features inspired interpretations of jazz classics and hidden gems. The swinging rendition of the standard “The More I See You” is sure to delight fans of classic jazz harmony. A nod to Eddie Harris comes in the form of a grooving take on “Cold Duck Time,” injecting a funky energy into the mix. Perhaps most notably, the album includes a fresh and respectful tribute to the legendary Wayne Shorter with a reimagining of his timeless ballad, “Infant Eyes.” This track, in particular, underscores the quartet’s ability to balance innovation with reverence for the jazz tradition.
“Groove Street” is more than just an album title; it’s an invitation to explore a musical landscape where tradition meets innovation, and where masterful musicianship serves the groove. Experience the captivating energy of the Dave Stryker Trio and Bob Mintzer as they chart new courses on “Groove Street,” available now for streaming and download, and also as a physical CD.
Track Listing:
- Groove Street
- Overlap
- Summit
- Infant Eyes
- Soulstice
- Cold Duck Time
- Code Blue
- The More I See You
- Straight Ahead
Personnel:
Dave Stryker – guitar
Bob Mintzer – tenor sax
Jared Gold – organ
McClenty Hunter – drums
Credits:
Produced by Dave Stryker
Engineered, Mixed and Mastered by Chris Sulit at Trading 8s Studio, Paramus NJ, July 2, 2023
Released January 1, 2024
License:
All rights reserved.
