Dave Stryker With Bob Mintzer and the WDR Big Band - Blue Soul

Dave Stryker With Bob Mintzer and the WDR Big Band
Blue Soul
Strikezone Records

Guitarist Dave Stryker's latest recording dates from March 2019 when he recorded with the WDR Big Band with tenor saxophonist Bob Mintzer. Mintzer, who serves as the principal conductor for the renowned Cologne, Germany band, provided the arrangements. The material here includes several songs in the vein of the Eight-Track soul and pop songs Stryker has featured in some recent recordings. Also heard are Stryker's originals that are in a similar groove-based manner.

Obviously, there is a difference between Stryker's usual organ jazz combo and a big band. However, the finger-popping, soulful feel of these performances is similar, in part due to Mintzer's handsome arrangements. Stryker is terrific with his lithe single note, horn-like solos set against a relaxed swinging groove. There are several standouts in the big band, including the keyboards of Billy Test (whose organ playing is excellent), drummer Hans Dekker and Mintzer himself.

Standout tracks include renditions of a couple Marvin Gaye songs, "Trouble Man" and, "What's Going On." Karolina Strassmayer is impressive on alto sax while Billy Test plays some funky organ. Stryker's jaunty original "AHA" has a robust Mintzer solo along with one from Stryker. Another original "Blues Strut," has a relaxed marching groove and showcases Test and Mintzer in addition to Stryker's scintillating playing. An unexpected delight is the performance of "Prince's "When Doves Cry," with Stryker's lyrical statement of the melody set against brassy horns. In addition to Stryker's nimble fretwork, alto saxophonist John Hörlén exhibits a dry, bluesy tone.

Against the relaxed swing of "Wichita Lineman," Stryker makes use of the lower register of his guitar to state the theme before Andy Hunter's surging trombone. Mintzer and Stryker are the soloists on Stanley Turrentine's "Stan's Shuffle," that closes this recording. With varied music, Mintzer's terrific arrangements, and the first-rate backing of the WDR Big Band, Dave Stryker's "Blue Soul' is his latest memorable recording.

I received my review copy from a publicist. Here is "Blues Strut" from  this CD.