Bad Benson
Much like Nat King Cole in the 1950s, George Benson's crossover success in the '70s found the jazz musician stepping forward as an expressive singer and reaching a much wider pop audience. Yet he'd made numerous recordings already as a fully formed post-Wes Montgomeryjazz guitarist. Recorded for the CTI label,Bad Bensonis a smooth and funky affair. With the tandem guitars of Benson andPhil Upchurchtaking center stage, there's rhythmic and tasteful interplay throughout.Paul Desmond's "Take Five" is a suitable opener, setting the tone for the laid-back grooves that follow. Favoring primarily originals, this CD reissue is expanded with a few additional covers from the sessions. Left off due to the time limitations of the original vinyl format,Billy Strayhorn's "Take the 'A' Train" simmers along with subtle relentlessness, whileDon Sebesky's "Serbian Blue" is a moody take, full of late-night film noir mystery.--David Greenberger