Brian Scanlon Brain Scan

Brian Scanlon
Brain Scan
Scan Man Music

Having worked as a studio musician for recordings, movies, and television shows, veteran saxophonist Brian Scanlon has a debut album as a leader. In addition to studio work, he has played behind some great names and perhaps is best known for his work with The Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band. Originally from New Jersey, it was while playing with the touring company of "Pippin," which led him to become a member of Ben Vereen's road band. Eventually, he ended up in Los Angeles, which led to his work as a studio musician.

On "Brain Scan," he plays both tenor and alto saxophones, composed eight originals, and interpreted one older tune. His backing musicians include including Tom Ranier and Ed Czach on piano, Trey Henry on bass, Peter Erskine on drums, Andrew Synowiec, Larry Koonse, and Avery Scanlon on guitar, and Joey De Leon on percussion. His compositions display a bunch of influences, including an affinity for funk and Latin grooves, with ingenious use of tempo changes.

The album starts with the title track, a playful number that evokes classic Blue Note recordings. His bright, fluid alto sax is complemented by Czach's comping and spirited guitar from his son Avery. "El Entrometido," with its percolating Latin groove, showcases his robust, driving tenor sax. Trey Henry and Peter Erskine are superb here and throughout this album, while Tom Ranier adds a choice piano solo. 'Re-Entry" takes us in more of a Grover Washington or David Sanborn funk-jazz vein while "Not Watching (For Nancy)" is a beautiful ballad performance with Scanlan on alto sax. Synowiec's guitar enhances it.

An energetic rendition of "Harlem Nocturne" is the one non-original and benefits Scanlan's arrangement for the quartet and the tempo shifts. With the rapid tempo, Scanlan impresses with his facility, clean delivery, and imaginative solo. Ranier and Erskine both solo on this number. Guitarist Koonse is present on the loping lament "Mark's Time." Scanlon wrote if for his brother who died of AIDS in 1992. Koonse adds a thoughtful solo in addition to that from Scanlon. Scanlon's son Avery returns for the closing "Scandalized," with its late-night mood.

There is plenty of excellent music to be heard on "Brain Scan." With excellent tunes, the leader's warm, and robust saxophone, and a terrific studio band, Brian Scanlon's debut as a leader is quite auspicious.

I received a review copy from a publicist. Here is a video of Brian Scanlon performing.