Taj Mahal Takes a Swing Down Memory Lane with "Savoy"

Taj Mahal – Savoy 

Stony Plain Records – 2023

https://www.tajblues.com/

14 Songs – 59 minutes

Taj Mahal, a living legend in the world of blues, swings into a bygone era with his latest release, "Savoy." Born Henry St. Clair Fredericks in 1942, Mahal's musical journey has been a lifelong exploration of various genres, deeply rooted in his African heritage. From folk-blues to collaborations with iconic musicians like Ry Cooder, Keb Mo, and a homage to Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee, Taj Mahal's discography is a testament to his eclectic musical pursuits.

In "Savoy," Taj Mahal turns his attention to the golden era of Harlem's Savoy Ballroom in the 1930s and 40s. A historic venue that hosted legendary performances, Taj Mahal's parents even met there while listening to the iconic Ella Fitzgerald. The album is a nostalgic trip back to the big band-styled swing music that graced the Savoy's dance floors.

The journey begins with Taj's rendition of "Stompin' at the Savoy," a nod to his parents' meeting place, enriched with a touch of scat singing. Taj then delves into Duke Ellington's "I'm Just A Lucky So and So," capturing the essence of the era with the help of Kristen Strom's exquisite flute work. "Gee Baby, Ain't I Good To You" pays homage to Nat King Cole's 1945 rendition, featuring John Simon's masterful piano playing.

The timeless "Summertime" by George Gershwin, famously performed by Billie Holiday in 1936, gets a soulful makeover, showcasing Taj's vocal prowess. Duke Ellington's "Mood Indigo" receives a fresh arrangement, offering a glimpse into the band's creative reinterpretation of classic tunes. The mood shifts to jump blues with Louis Jordan's "Is You or Is You Ain't My Baby," adorned with spirited guitar work by Danny Caron and Erik Jekabson's standout trumpet solo.

The album takes a charming turn with "Do Nothing 'Till You Hear From Me," a tune previously embraced by Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. Taj's warm and inviting delivery, complemented by Danny Caron's guitar, adds depth to the nostalgic atmosphere. "Sweet Georgia Brown," featuring Evan Price's lively violin solo, captures the joyful spirit of the 1925 classic.

The timeless duet "Baby, It's Cold Outside" comes to life as Taj Mahal partners with Maria Muldaur, creating a delightful musical dialogue. "Lady Be Good" draws inspiration from Lester Young's version, with Taj infusing his own scat singing style, echoing the energy of the Savoy era. Bessie Smith's hit "Baby Won't You Please Come Home" receives a spirited rendition, driven by Eric Jekabson's dynamic trumpet solo.

Louis Jordan's jump blues anthem "Caldonia" adds a vibrant touch, highlighting Taj's ability to infuse new life into classic tunes. "Killer Joe," originally penned by Benny Golson in 1960, takes a bluesy turn with Taj's harmonica and Kristen Strom's saxophone weaving intricate melodies. The album reaches its peak with "One For My Baby (And One More For The Road)," a Johnny Mercer classic that Taj Mahal pays tribute to with soulful authenticity.

"Savoy" is a musical time capsule, transporting listeners to the heyday of the Savoy Ballroom. Taj Mahal's love for these classic songs resonates in every note, and the album stands as a heartfelt homage to the artists who once graced the historic venue. With masterful arrangements, stellar performances, and Taj Mahal's enduring passion for preserving musical heritage, "Savoy" is a must-listen for anyone enchanted by the magic of swing and the golden age of Harlem's Savoy Ballroom.