This early 21st century version of the
Crusaders features founding members
Joe Sample (Rhodes and Wurlitzer) and
Wilton Felder (saxophone), with new recruits in guitarist
Ray Parker, Jr., trombonist Steve Baxter, drummer
Kendrick Scott, and bassist Freddy Washington, Jr. Previously released only in Japan, this live date was in support of the shockingly good
Rural Renewal album from 2003, which included this band with original drummer
Stix Hooper and a slew of guests including
Eric Clapton. This gig contains two cuts from that album: the stellar "Shotgun House Groove" with great guitar work by
Parker and a fine, funky, in the pocket groover called "Creepin'." The rest is from the
Crusaders catalog and includes tracks from
Southern Comfort,
Free as the Wind, and
Street Life. While this in no way captures the same magic as the original quartet -- trombonist Wayne Henderson and
Hooper were too integral to its sound to be replaced by anyone -- this music is beautifully played and felt. Excellent examples include
Felder's classic (it's almost the
Crusaders' theme) "Way Back Home," with its lilting horn and piano groove, excellent Rhodes by
Sample, and a stunning solo by
Felder. This cut is pure soul feel; these cats dig deep into the vamp at its core making it express more each time through. Another notable is the über funky "Put It Where You Want It" to close the set.
Parker's guitar playing is far to the nasty left of
Larry Carlton's (on the original studio version from
the Crusaders 1). The bottom line is, if you simply accept this for what it is, a tough, feel good soul-jazz record, it is a truly fine listen without a dud tune in the bunch. Believe it: there is plenty here to get your groove on to. ~ Thom Jurek